Objective Interpret wildlife management practices as related to good environmental management

Wildlife Management Practices Wildlife management on most farms is usually a by-product of the family operation.

Suitable habitat and food are essential to increase the number of wildlife on a farm To improve habitat: –brush piles might be left when harvesting wood lots –leave crop residue standing –Plant fence rows with shrubs and grasses

Proper wildlife management includes managed hunting and fishing Remove excess wildlife that would otherwise be lost due to natural causes Prevents overpopulation, which results in malnutrition, disease, and a reduction in reproduction, which will result in decreased wildlife population

Carrying capacity The number of wildlife each habitat can support throughout the year. More wildlife than the habitat can support will result in problems for wildlife and habitat.

Managed Hunting Removing some game that would otherwise be lost due to natural causes.

Results of Over Population Malnutrition, disease, and a reduction in the reproduction cycle Habitat quality goes down –Water quality of a stream carrying 20 fish will decrease if 50 fish are in the stream

Space The area that an animal uses to meet its basic requirements for life

Habitat The area where a plant or animal naturally lives and grows

Cover Vegetation and other materials providing protection for wildlife

Territory The area an animal will defend