Presented by Bowhunt Scotland and the British Bowhunters Association in association with the European Bowhunting Federation and

the International Bowhunter Education Programme

Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Bowhunt Scotland 2011 Draft 2

A campaign of the British Bowhunters Association www.britishbowhuntersassociation.co.uk

With special thanks to the European Bowhunting Federation www.europeanbowhunting.org

Bowhunt Scotland is a diverse group of interested parties who wish to see bowhunting permitted in Scotland. A grass roots initative, it has been adopted as a British Bowhunters Association campaign.

Written and designed in Scotland by Ian Kirkwood.

bowhuntscotland.elrig.net
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A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Foreword
The craft of bowhunting has evolved over the last eighty years into a capable system that not only takes game of all sizes efficiently and humanely, but also meets the expectations of modern hunting practices. Equipment of high quality is readily available. Bowhunter training which is of equal importance has been developed in tandem and is obligatory for bowhunters in most countries. People are often surprised to hear bowhunting is not yet legal in Scotland. Todays archery equipment and bowhunter training, when combined, allow us to step into the footprints of our ancestors and take game efficiently at a range of about twenty metres. With the need to achieve such close ranges it will come as no surprise that hunting the hard way takes on average five to ten times longer in the field than using a bullet. It is a supreme test of hunting skills. In short, modern bowhunting encapsulates and typifies the universal concept of fair chase, the time-honoured ethic that allows the hunter no improper advantage. Instead the advantage is with the hunted. This is the appeal of bowhunting. Time is ripe for this form of hunting to be permitted to both Scots and overseas visitors to our country. This booklet paints a picture of how bowhunting can be managed in Scotland. It has long been on the increase around the world, evolving into a modern form that is not yet well known here. But Scotland has so much to offer bowhunters. They are knocking at the door to pursue our countrys numerous game species with obvious financial benefits for the country. In addition, our burgeoning red deer population requires the attention of new hunter groups. We invite stakeholders and communities to work with us in developing this plan. It will ultimately inform the framing of legislation to regulate bowhunting in Scotland. Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland discusses the issues in detail, laying out a comprehensive plan to establish Scotland as a premier destination for bowhunters from both here and around the world.

A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

Contents
Page

Foreword Introduction
Bowhunt Scotland Modern bowhunting for Scotland

2 4

Background
History Bowhunting now Current legal status in Scotland Bowhunting species in Scotland Economic and other factors

Bowhunting for Scotland

Accepting bowhunting in Scotland The broadhead arrow point how it works Bow types for hunting Effective range Bowhunter training and certification in Scotland Wound rates Working together with estate staff Equipment specifications

8 9 10 11 12 13 15

Summary
A plan to introduce bowhunting to Scotland

Appendices
Appendix 1. The bowhunting world Appendix 2. Danish Field Trial (19992004)

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Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Introduction
Bowhunt Scotland
Bowhunt Scotland is an inclusive stakeholder group seeking to have bowhunting included as part of a sustainable Scottish deer management regime. We invite land owners, game keepers, ghillies, hill walkers, deer management groups, communities, lovers of the outdoors, economists and policy makers, as well as bowhunters, to join us and have their say in the development of this draft plan. In the first instance we are unified in our determination that the pursuit of game be conducted according to the rule of fair chase, the long established and widely held ethic that allows the hunter no improper advantage. We demand that animals be hunted with effective methods and equipment and that death be both swift and indeed, respectful. Today such aspirations are attainable by the bowhunter and his guide who are trained, certified and equipped to a high standard. Whilst bowhunting has been on the increase around the globe, it remains an unfamiliar pursuit to estate owners and keepers here in Scotland. The capability of modern archery hunting gear and the high standards of bowhunter training and certification are not widely known. The misconception of high wound rates may persist. But the preservation of Scotlands sporting tradition by private individuals in recent centuries means that bowhunters from both here and around the world are knocking at the door to pursue our countrys numerous game species with obvious financial benefits for landowners and communities. In addition, our burgeoning red deer population requires the attention of new hunter groups.

Modern bowhunting for Scotland

Today bowhunting is a highly evolved and widely accepted hunting method. It relies on two principles to ensure that it remains so: 1. The equipment is effective. 2. The hunter is capable. Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland discusses bowhunting equipment and bowhunter training in some detail, advocating the adoption of tried and tested specifications and requirements to ensure satisfactory performance once game is being pursued by bowhunters in Scotland. Central to our argument in favour of bowhunting is the evidence we present to demonstrate that the hunting arrow is as effective and humane as the bullet (see the chapter Bowhunting for Scotland, page 8 and Appendix 2) except that the bowhunter will on average spend longer in the field per shot taken. Arrow wound rates are the same as or less than those for bullets. Bowhunting for Scotland starting on page 8, describes some of the equipment available today and concentrates on the crucial specification of the hunting arrow point known as a broadhead, along with minimum arrow weights, both of which work together to ensure taking of game is quick, efficient and ethical. Explaining how differently arrows kill game than bullets makes it necessary to describe some details graphically. We also describe the advanced and comprehensive nature of current bowhunter education that is compulsory in many countries and will be in Scotland which is largely responsible for the sound reputation enjoyed by bowhunting around the world. 4

A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

Background
History
The bow and arrow were common in Scotland until superseded by firearms. They were primarily food harvesting tools, but also figured in Scottish battles and skirmishes until about the year 1700. Until then the bow was a common sight in Scotlands hills and forests. Ways of hunting were developed such as using the elrig, a geographical feature that even today peppers highland maps. These narrow channels between hills, sometimes leading to enclosures, were the targets towards which hundreds of beaters drove vast herds of deer for archers to shoot at from high vantage points.

Bowhunting now
Game of all sizes is harvested by bowhunters worldwide. Many of the countries where it is an accepted form of hunting are listed in Appendix 1 (page 16). The millions of bowhunters around the world have sufficient spending power to support a dynamic archery industry that invests continuously in research and development to improve the design and performance of todays archery gear. In fact bowhunting is the economic engine driving technological improvements available to Olympic and other competitive archers. At the same time hunting techniques and accessories are also evolving, helping archers to get closer to their targets. Efficient portable tree stands, ground blinds and improved camouflage allow game to be ambushed at close quarters. Insulated clothing allows the bowhunter to lie in wait with less stress in the period leading up to the all-important shot, which must be executed using the archers own bodily strength. Bowhunter education, dependable equipment and the long practice of marksmanship all come together in the rewarding craft that is bowhunting today.
Spending by bowhunters finances improvements to equipment used in the world of competitive archery.

In 2009 over 1,100,000 deer were taken by some 3,500,000 bowhunters in the US.

Bowhunting is recognised and encouraged in over 60 countries.

Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Current legal status in Scotland

Bowhunting in Scotland is currently banned by the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Reading through the Act it is quickly apparent that the enactors were keen to ban methods that do not espouse the principle of fair chase. The Act, for example, prohibits the pursuit of game using such techniques as lamping, gassing, poisoning and electrocuting. Automatic weapons, mechanical vehicles, live decoys, audio recordings, etc. are prohibited, all of which would give hunters unfair advantage. Bowhunt Scotland is in full agreement with all these measures. In contrast, the bow and arrow as used for hunting today, require additional hunting skills and give significant advantage to the quarry instead of the hunter.
The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The Deer (Scotland) Act 1996 Act may also need to be amended.

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (Chapter 69)

Part 1 Wildlife Protection of birds Section 5 Prohibition of certain methods of killing or taking birds

[If any person] (c) uses for the purpose of killing or taking any wild bird (i) any bow or crossbow; he shall be guilty of an offence and be liable to a special penalty.
Part 1 Wildlife Protection of other animals Section 11 Prohibition of certain methods of killing or taking wild animals

[If any person] (b) uses for the purpose of killing or taking any wild animal any self locking snare, whether or not of such a nature as aforesaid, any bow or crossbow or any explosive other than ammunition for a firearm; he shall be guilty of an offence. To allow the establishment of bowhunting in Scotland it is necessary for the wording, any bow to be removed from the legislation above and for a code of practice to be agreed to govern bowhunting. The reformed Act above will conform to the current equivalent EU legislation (The Habitat Directive 9243, Annex 6) from which such wording is already absent. The EU Charter on Hunting and Biodiversity (section 1.6.1) provides a set of non-binding principles and guidelines for sustainable hunting with bows to facilitate biodiversity conservation and rural development.

The reformed Act will conform to the current EU legislation.

Bowhunting species in Scotland

Game of all sizes is harvested by bowhunters. The largest game animal in Scotland is the red deer (Cervus elaphus), a medium size game species in bowhunting terms. Table 1 (opposite) lists many of the game species that could be taken with the bow and arrow in Scotland.

Economic and other factors

Sporting estates and rural communities will benefit from bowhunting.

Needless to say, bowhunters are ready to pay to hunt. Scotland is of great interest to bowhunters from around the world who would like to establish relationships with landowners willing to accommodate them. As things stand Scotland is missing out on such income. We would welcome further research to provide detail in this area. Bowhunting is silent, a benefit to hunters, outdoors people and suburban or rural communities lying adjacent to hunting areas. For any to whom it is an issue, bowhunting reduces the proliferation of firearms.

A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

Table 1. Principal bowhunting species in Scotland

Principal source: BASC Scotland

GROUP

COMMON NAME Red deer

BIOLOGICAL NAME Cervus elaphus

(Source: BASC)

SEASON

ADDITIONAL BOW SEASON

(proposed)

Stags: July 1 Oct 20 Hinds: Oct 21 Feb 15 Bucks: Aug 1 Apr 30 Does: Oct 21 Feb 15 Stags: July 1 Oct 20 Hinds: Oct 21 Feb 15 Bucks: April 1 Oct 20

June 24 30 Oct 14 20 July 25 31 Oct 14 20 June 24 30 Oct 14 20 March 25 31 Oct 14 20 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Shots at stationary birds and small game are usually permitted in bowhunting. Bowhunting can contribute to the control of invasive non-native species. Applications to Scottish Natural Heritage for additional bowhunting periods have precedent in other countries. Discussion of this topic is proposed.

Fallow deer

Dama dama

DEER

Sika deer

Cervus nippon

Roe deer Muntjac Chinese water deer Brown Hare SMALL GAME Mountain hare Rabbit Fox Mink FERAL SPECIES AND VERMIN Feral goat Wild boar Grey squirrel Brown rat Black rat Carrion crow Hoodie crow Pheasant Grey partridge Red legged partridge Red Grouse Ptarmigan GAME BIRDS Black grouse Snipe Woodcock Duck & Goose (inland)
(below high water mark)

Capreolus capreolus Muntiacus reevesi Hydroptes inermis Lepus capensis Lepus timidus Oryctolagus cuniculus Vulpes vulpes Mustela vison Capra aegagrus hircus Sus scrofa Sciurus carolinensis Rattus norvegicus Rattus rattus Corvus corone corone Corvus corone cornix Phasianus colchicus Perdix perdix Alectoris rufa Lagopus lagopus Lagopus mutus Tetrao tetrix Gallinago gallinago Scolopax rusticola Various Various Fulica atra Gallinula chloropus Pluvialis apricaria Columba palumbus

Does: Oct 21 March 31 n/a n/a Cannot be sold March to July Cannot be sold March to July n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Oct 1 Feb 1 Sept 1 Feb 1 Sept 1 Feb 1 Aug 12 Dec 10 Aug 20 Dec 10 Aug 20 Dec 10 Aug 12 Jan 31 Sept 1 Jan 31 Sept 1 Jan 31 Sept 1 Feb 20 Sept 1 Jan 31 Sept 1 Jan 31 Sept 1 Jan 31 n/a

Duck & Goose

Coot Moorhen Golden Plover Woodpigeon

Note: This list is based on species currently hunted with gun or rifle in Scotland and is presented as a basis for discussion. It is recognised, for example, that shooting a snipe with bow and arrow might never happen.

Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Bowhunting for Scotland

Accepting bowhunting in Scotland
Acceptance of bowhunting may be expected where there is general recognition that: 1. The bow is an effective and humane hunting tool. 2. Bowhunters are trained and certified. 3. Bowhunters are ethical hunters. 4. Bowhunting provides income. 5. Bowhunting is regulated. In this booklet we demonstrate how all five points may be confirmed with confidence. Bowhunt Scotland also believes that broad-based recognition for bowhunting will become apparent if stakeholders are involved in discussions leading to that end. We therefore invite landowners, gamekeepers, deer management groups, environmental bodies, economists and lawyers, as well as hunting organisations, to offer opinion as we move towards regulated bowhunting in Scotland. Please register and comment by contacting us through our web site:
Contact Bowhunt Scotland

http://bowhuntscotland.elrig.net This chapter explains how bowhunting achieves swift kills using the broadhead arrow point; how animal welfare is maximised through highly developed compulsory bowhunter training; that wounding rates are the same as, or lower than, those achieved with rifles; and how attractive Scotland is to bowhunters worldwide who are willing to pay to participate. In this booklet we offer evidence in support of bowhunting as an efficient, ethical hunting method. But we recognise that this information may not on its own convince everyone of our case. To that end we propose that additionally, if required, a Scottish Bowhunting Trial be designed and run under the supervision of Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

Scottish Bowhunting Trial

A trial to evaluate the capability of bowhunting in Scotland would be designed with the assistance of the British Bowhunters Association in consultation with and under the supervision of Scottish Natural Heritage. Proficient, certified hunters and a location/locations for such a trial will be provided through Bowhunt Scotland or another party with the agreement of SNH. The resulting evidence would be made available to interested parties and form the basis of an amendment to the current legislation to be placed before the Scottish Parliament at a suitable time. Such trials have already been undertaken in other countries to evaluate bowhunting prior to legal recognition. Please see Appendix 2 (page 19) describing The Danish Bowhunting Trial 19992004 and a link to the more recent Swedish trial which offer patterns that might be adapted to the needs of Scottish wildlife management.

A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

The broadhead arrow point how it works

The capability of archery gear to take game of any size is primarily down to the design of the hunting arrowhead. It is very different from arrowheads used for target archery. A strike within the vital area that comprises primarily the heart and lungs, leads to a swift drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness and a quick death. There are numerous designs of broadhead available, a traditional tried and tested design consisting of two razor sharp cutting edges which are capable of inflicting massive instantaneous damage to vital organs and blood vessels. The minimum width of the broadhead (usually 25mm) is often the subject of legislation to help ensure quick kills.

Broadhead arrow point

This is a three bladed broadhead shown actual size. Two and four-blade versions are also common. Amongst the vast number of designs can be found versions that open on impact.

Broadhead

Field point

Bullet point

Archers use these solid metal points for shooting at inanimate archery targets only.

Field point and bullet point

Blunt hunting points (not illustrated) are often used to take small game. Unlike the broadhead these do not penetrate deeply but instead rely on their ability to transmit shock (to small game only). We propose that these be permitted for the pursuit of small game in Scotland as indicated in Table 2 (page 13).

The double-lung shot and pass-throughs

Bowhunters are determined to make swift and efficient kills. They therefore aim to hit both lungs, and if possible the heart, of the game being shot. The best angle to achieve this is the broadside shot. The immediate collapse of both lungs works in tandem with plummeting blood pressure to cause swift loss of consciousness and immobilisation. The minimum bow draw weights and arrow weights specified in Table 2 (Page 13) will, in many cases, cause the arrow to pass completely through the chest cavity of even the largest Scottish red deer when shot correctly at an appropriate range. The result is a quick and efficient kill.

Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Bow types for hunting

The choice of bows available for hunting is extensive. In recent times compound bows (below left) have become popular amongst bowhunters worldwide. Simpler bows such as the recurve bow (right) are favoured by others. In addition to these popular versions, flat bows, long bows and short bows of various materials from wood to kevlar are all capable of taking game. Bowhunters are trained to choose shooting distances that suit their own equipment and abilities. An archer able to control a heavier bow may allow himself a longer range depending on conditions and his or her ability. We propose that minimum bow draw weights be established for use in Scotland as outlined in Table 2 (page 13). However the emphasis in legislation should be placed on specifying the ammunition the arrow itself the means by which the bow is capable of making efficient kills. We have seen how the arrow works for bowhunters in the last section. The minimum weight of the arrow is the other vital factor which needs to be specified for the three groups of game in Table 3. Simply put, heavier arrows penetrate deeper and bowhunters choose bows capable of shooting the arrows required in law. Different specifications are used around the world (see for example South Africas rules in Appendix 1, page 17).

Numerous styles of bow are capable of taking game. Legislation will therefore concentrate on minimum arrow specifications.

Hunting bows

The bow most commonly used for hunting today is the compound bow.

No License is required to own a bow and arrow in Scotland.

Compound bow

Recurve bow

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A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

Effective range
The bow and arrow is not used to shoot game at long range. The appeal of bowhunting lies in the challenge it lays down for the hunter to get really close to the quarry. Bowhunters are trained to limit the range they shoot from in the interest of animal welfare. They seek to take high percentage shots pretty much on top of game. This is achieved in various ways discussed in more detail on page 12, with the result that shots are taken at ranges from 5 to 30 metres.
Keepers and ghillies will adapt their methods to assist bowhunters in getting close to game.

Most bowhunting shots are taken from around 20 metres. The broadside view provides the path of least resistance to vital organs.

Bowhunter training and certification for Scotland

A comprehensive training programme for bowhunters already exists that is well established and recognised worldwide. The International Bowhunter Education Programme (IBEP) certifies bowhunters around the world. It is a requirement in many countries. It has been run by the National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) www.nbef.org since 1979 and is managed in the UK by the British Bowhunters Association (BBA) www.britishbowhuntersassociation.co.uk. The course has theoretical and practical elements. The first section (10 hours) covers all aspects of bowhunting, some of which are touched on in this booklet, such as hunting methods, understanding how the broadhead works and shot placement. 11

Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

The goal of the IBEP training is to instil in all bowhunters a responsible attitude and to adopt and follow acceptable behaviour towards people, wildlife and the environment in which they hunt.

Also habitat, tools, safety, hypothermia, first aid, scouting, tracking, anatomy, game care/recovery and map reading. The practical section (3 hours) includes technical instruction and a proficiency test where the hunter needs to show he or she can master the weapon of choice. Training is also available for estate owners and staff who will be hosting and guiding bowhunters.

Wound rates
Largely because of the highly developed nature of bowhunter training, we are proud to say that wounding rates are demonstrably the same as or lower than those for rifles. Misconceptions to the contrary may be attributable to a small number of irresponsible crossbow attacks on deer in the 1970s using bolts fitted with target points. Such scandalous incidents are condemned by Bowhunt Scotland. In evidence we present the findings of the recent Danish Bowhunting Trial 1999 2004 (Appendix 2) which recorded a wound rate of less than 5% over a five year period. The report for 20052007 confirms and improves on this rate, based on data from 1000+ shots taken at roe deer over nine seasons. Any unsuccessful shot is anathema to trained bowhunters, which is why they only shoot at close range. However, an animal wounded by an arrow is much more likely to recover than if wounded by a bullet.

Working together with estate staff

Bowhunting will be new to many involved in game management in Scotland. The principal challenges that need to be addressed by those hosting bowhunters are: 1. Getting very close to game. 2. Spending long periods in ambush. 3. Target choice. For some this will not be a problem. Bowhunters are certified and able to be briefed. They will do all of the above on their own where permitted. Where staff have been in the habit of accompanying clients and choosing the shots it may be necessary to re-evaluate the regime. Is it economic for staff to spend prolonged periods waiting with clients? With extra people in hides or stalking, will they be more easily detected by game, especially at such close quarters? Despite the expertise of many bowhunters abroad we recognise and value the local knowledge of Scottish keepers and ghillies. Working together we plan to devise

Bowhunters can spend long periods waiting to ambush game. Other methods include still hunting, stalking and driving. The best methods for Scotland need to be developed in discussion with local game managers.

Ground blind

Tree stand

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A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

and develop Scottish solutions that will provide excellent bowhunting whether in woodland or the open hill. We offer Bowhunt Scotland as a forum for this. It is common for guides to request confirmation of their clients shooting skills by requesting them to shoot before being let loose on their land. A target designed for broadheads or a substantial pile of sand is needed. Archers need such a facility to fine-tune equipment and may even bring their own. They will be happy to comply with such requests.

Equipment specifications
Bows
Minimum draw weights have traditionally been specified for hunting bows. That is the pressure (lbs) required to draw the bow. A more accurate measure of performance is a bows energy output expressed in joules. We reccommend minimum specifications for Scotland be expressed in joules. Scottish game can divided into three groups by size. The following minimum specifications for peak bow draw weight are proposed for bowhunting in Scotland.

Table 2. Minimum proposed peak bow draw weights or joules output for hunting bows in Scotland. Minimum arrow weights and arrow point options for bowhunting in Scotland.
SCOTTISH SPECIES MINIMUM ARROW WEIGHT (grains) MINIMUM BOW DRAW WEIGHT OR JOULES OUTPUT ARROW POINT OPTIONS Measuring a bows output in joules is a better indicator of a bows performance because bows made from superior performing materials can have significantly higher energy outputs than others with the same peak draw weight. GROUP GROUP 1

Red deer Fallow deer Sika deer Wild boar Roe deer Muntjac Chinese water deer Feral goat Fox Brown hare Mountain hare Duck Goose Black grouse Pheasant Rabbit Mink Grey squirrel Brown/black rat Carrion/hoodie crow Grey/red legged partridge Red grouse Ptarmigan Snipe Woodcock Coot Moorhen Golden plover Wood pigeon

400 grains

45 lbs at 28 draw or 45 joules

1. Broadhead (min width 25mm)

GROUP 2

300 grains

35 lbs at 28 draw or 35 joules

1. Broadhead (min width 25mm)

Stronger archers may select bows with peak draw weights well in excess of 60 lbs. It is important for the inclusion of smaller framed and female archers (since red deer are only medium size quarry for bowhunters) not to over-specify draw weights or energy output in any legislation.

GROUP 3

300 grains

35 lbs at 28 draw or 35 joules

1. Broadhead (min width 25mm) 2. Game blunt

Manufacturers record the peak draw weights of their bows on the lower bow limb in pounds thus: 45# @ 28

Note: Peak draw weight is expressed in pounds of pressure required to pull the string to a point 28 inches from the handle, expressed in pounds (e.g. 55# @ 28).

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Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Arrows
Some countries specify equipment in units such as joules, ft-lbs, newtons, grams or kilograms (see Appendix 1).

The penetrating capability of an arrow relies heavily on its weight and its small frontal area (near zero). Its mass comprises the broadhead point (100 200 grains), the shaft, nock and vanes. The minimal frontal area of the arrow contributes to its capacity to penetrate game effectively when delivered with a force of 40 joules (modern compound bows deliver carbon arrows with forces around 60 to 100 joules). The arrow weights shown in Table 2 (previous page) are proposed for use in Scotland in pursuit of three groups of game species based on their size. A broadhead arrow point with a minimum cutting width of 25mm will be obligatory for hunting species listed in Groups 1 and 2 of Table 2. Specifications for Group 3 allow for the use of arrow points specifically designed for taking small game, game birds and small vermin, such as small game blunts.

Ensuring arrow penetration

It is necessary for the arrow to be of adequate mass to ensure penetration of the vital area. The minimum arrow weight will therefore be the subject of legislation to help ensure efficient kills. Bows must deliver these arrows at sufficient speed. The minimum peak draw weight and/or the energy output in joules of hunting bows will therefore be the subject of legislation. The minimum arrow weights, peak draw weights and/or joules of output in Table 2 are proposed for taking game in Scotland.

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A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

Summary
A plan to introduce bowhunting to Scotland
Bowhunt Scotland is a stakeholder group seeking recognition for bowhunting in Scotland. Bowhunting is a credible, effective and ethical method for harvesting game of all sizes, epitomizing the principle of fair chase. It is accepted in many countries, including much of Europe and Scandinavia. In many areas our red deer population requires the attention of new hunter groups. In 2009 over 1.1m deer were taken by 3.5m bowhunters in the US. Bowhunters use special arrow points called broadheads which kill game fast. Todays equipment is highly effective and bowhunters are trained to a high standard. Compulsory bowhunter training is largely responsible for the good name enjoyed by bowhunting around the world. A well established programme developed over forty years seeks to instil in all bowhunters a responsible attitude and to adopt and follow acceptable behaviour towards people, wildlife and the environment in which they hunt. We believe that broad-based recognition for bowhunting will appear if stakeholders are involved in discussions leading to that end. We therefore invite landowners, gamekeepers, deer management groups, communities, environmental bodies, economists and lawyers, as well as hunting organisations, to offer opinion as we move towards regulated bowhunting in Scotland. Please register and comment by contacting us through our web site: http://bowhuntscotland.elrig.net The draft plan that we present here is based on models from around the world that are tried and tested and that put the highest priority on animal welfare. It includes detailed minimum specifications for both bowhunting equipment and bowhunter certification. In addition we propose that an early Scottish Bowhunting Trial be planned and executed under the supervision of Scottish Natural Heritage, which we believe will validate the claims we make in this booklet about bowhunting. The results would be made available to interested parties and form the basis of an amendment to the current legislation to be placed before the Scottish Parliament at a suitable time. It is time for Scotland to embrace and benefit from bowhunting. Scotland has much to offer bowhunters in terms of both game and facilities. In return bowhunting has significant spending power to invest in Scotland and its communities.

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Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Appendices
Appendix 1 The bowhunting world
Source: European Bowhunting Federation This table reveals a picture of recent growth for bowhunting around the world. This appendix is not intended as a comprehensive list, but details many of the countries where bowhunting is now taking place. The notes give useful information on how different countries have chosen to regulate bowhunting. The propsals put forward in this booklet have precedent elsewhere and make for a workable, tried and tested system fit to govern bowhunting in Scotland.

COUNTRY

BOWHUNTING STATUS

NOTE 1995 Legalised for all game. A current estimate gives in excess of 6,000 bowhunters in France. 2003 The use of a release aid is allowed as well as shorter bows. A french education programme is mandatory. In addition to the hunting permit, each bowhunter needs a legal attestation of training. 1993 Bowhunting formalised. 2001 Species up to and including roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) and beaver (Castor fibris) permitted. The force of bows must be min 180 Newton pull (40# draw weight), Broadhead min 22mm width. 2007 The Finnish Hunter Association filed for a change in law so that all smaller deer will be legal to harvest with bow and arrow. Finland hosts the largest group of bowhunters (approximately 9000). Currently a study is being carried out with a view to allowing bowhunting for small game. 1993 Legalised for all game. In the case of big game (red deer, roe deer, fallow deer, moufflon and wild boar) the bows minimum force is set at 222.7 N (50#). Broadhead required. Hungarian bowhunters must pass the general hunting state exam and a bowhunter-specific exam. In general bowhunters are under the same hunting regulations as gun hunters with some small privileges (for example, the bowhunter is allowed to shoot at a sitting/ standing hares). All regions except 3 allow bowhunting. Although in one of these, Emilia Romagna, a public subscription has been accepted by the local government to cancel this law. Wild boar are bowhunted in Tuscany and Lombardia. Small game is bowhunted all over Italy. It is also legal to hunt in fenced preserves (wild boar and fallow deer mainly). 1967 Hunting with bow and arrow is made illegal but is immediately put on a dispensation system. 1999 Roe deer and lesser game regulated. 2005 A study over five hunting seasons has been completed on the hunting roe deer (capreolus capreolus) with bow and arrow. The study demonstrated a wound rate of approximately 5% (comparable or better than the commonly used means of harvesting roe deer in Europe). 1986 Permitted for all game. International Bowhunter Education (IBEP) certificates required.

FRANCE

LEGAL

FINLAND

LEGAL

GERMANY

NOT LEGAL

HUNGARY

LEGAL

ITALY

LEGAL

DENMARK

LEGAL

PORTUGAL

LEGAL

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CROATIA

LEGAL

Permitted at some private and fenced grounds. It is forbidden to hunt with any cold weapons and air weapons or crossbows unless the law (2005) exempts it. One hunting dog must be available per 3 bowhunters. Permitted on fenced estates (300-600ha). Permitted at smaller fenced-in grounds (30200 ha). 1998 The Swedish Bowhunting Association was granted a period to trial bowhunting and gauge the public opinion. The hunts were only conducted in fenced areas. Certification was required. Period to June 2002 showed a positive attitude and good results for the hunters who mostly took fallow deer and wild boar. The report was submitted in 2004 to the Swedish Environmental Agency for evaluation. In June 2008 The Swedish Bowhunter Association filed for a permit to hunt with bow and arrow. Result pending. 1987 Legal for all game. International Bowhunter Education Program certification required. Minimum 50 pound of pull and no barbed points. Legal to hunt all game species with bow and arrow. 2006 All game except moose can be harvested by bow and arrow. The hunter must have International Bowhunter Education Programme certification or equivalent. An Alandic Islands proficiency test is required on a yearly basis. The arrow must possess a minimum energy of 40 joule (29.5 ft/lbs.), and must weigh at least 25 grams, the hunting point must have at least two cutting edges with a minimum diameter of 25 mm. Legal for all game. Big 6 need a special permit. Category 1: 25 ft/lbs34 Joule (small game up to and including blesbocks i.e. weights to 60kg, including nyala female but not the male, warthog or predators larger than black backed jackal). Category 2: 40 ft/lbs-54 Joule (medium game including kudu, warthog, bushpig, and all predators i.e. weights to 200kg except lion, leopard, crocodile gemsbok and sable antelope). Category 3: 65ft/lbs-88 Joule (larger game including eland antelope, lion, leopard, crocodile, gemsbok and sable antelope. i.e. weights to 800 kg not including buffalo). Category 4: 87 ft/lbs-109 Joule (buffalo and Giraffe i.e. weights 600-2000 kg). Category 5: 105 ft/lbs-142 Joule (elephant, black and white rhinoceros and hippo i.e. weights over 1500 kg). Categories 13 must have a points with at least 25mm cutting width. Categories 45 must have a point with at least 28mm cutting width and be two-bladed. All antelopes can be hunted with bow and arrow. The guide must have a special permit to accompany bowhunters. As in RSA, Namibia has chosen the arrows kinetic energy as a rule for the various sizes of game: Small antelopes minimum: 25 ft/lbs 33.9 Joules excluding blesbock. Mid size antelopes minimum: 40 ft/lbs 54.24 Joules excluding kudu and warthog. Large antelopes minimum: 60 ft/lbs 81.36 Joules excluding eland and gemsbok. 1995 Bowhunts allowed for plains game. Minimum 50 ft/lbs/400grain, 68 Joule/26 grams for bushbuck, duiker, reedbuck, red lechwe, impala, oribi, wildebeest, zebra, tsessebe, kudu, sable, hartebeest and gemsbok.

SERBIA SLOVENIA

LEGAL LEGAL

SWEDEN

PENDING

SPAIN TURKEY

LEGAL LEGAL

LAND (Alandic Islands)

LEGAL

SOUTH AFRICA

LEGAL

NAMIBIA

LEGAL

BOTSWANA

LEGAL

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Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

ZIMBABWE

LEGAL

1989 Legalised. From 1999 according to Park and Wildlife General Amendment Regulation no 3 bowhunting is allowed on Alienated land i.e. private and federal land excluding the concessions bordering the Zambezi or other areas were a concession is in effect. Category BD including lion and leopard least pull is 25 kg or 55 lbs. Larger antelope minimum pull 35 Kg or 77 lbs, min arrow weight 40 grams. Giraffe and eland minimum pull 35 Kg or 77 lbs, min arrow weight 45 grams. Crocodile, buffalo, hippo and rhino cannot be hunted with bow and arrow. Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game. 2003 Permitted for all legal game. 2005 Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game in all states and provinces. Most states stipulate a minimum draw weight or minimum peak draw weight. This Varies from 30 to 45 pounds for white-tailed deer. Some states require minimum 50# bow pull for wapiti and moose. Most states also have a minimum width of the two bladed broadhead to be 7/8 (approximately 22 mm). A few states have put the limit at the cast of the arrow which has to exceed a distance of 140 yards or more. Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game. Most countries. Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game. Possible with special permit. Bow is considered a weapon and may not be brought into Russia without a license. Permitted for all legal game. Permitted for all legal game.

BURKINA FASO CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC CAMEROON CHAD MOZAMBIQUE ETHIOPIA TANZANIA ZAMBIA

LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL

UNITED STATES

LEGAL

CANADA MEXICO SOUTH AMERICA AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND RUSSIA MALAYSIA MONGOLIA

LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL

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A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

Appendix 2 The Danish Bowhunting Trial 19992004

Source: European Bowhunting Federation This five year study resulted in the recognition of bowhunting in Denmark as of January 2005. This study is based on reports submitted by the bowhunters who shot at roe deer. In accordance with Danish bowhunting legislation all bowhunters were obliged to submit a Game Report describing the number and species of game harvested during the hunting season. The National Forest and Nature Agency sent questionnaires to all bowhunters in February each year. It had to be submitted no later than 1 May the same year. In addition to the general game report, which applied to all species of game, each bowhunter who harvested a roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) was required to fill in a special report. These were compiled for use in future evaluations of the bows efficiency as a tool for hunting roe deer. The return of these reports was fulfilled to 99.4%. These reports were compared with the reports filed by the keepers of Danish tracking dogs who were required to be called out in cases of suspected deer woundings and to file independent reports on their tracking results. The first mandatory bowhunting courses were held consisting of the theoretical (written) and practical (shooting proficiency) tests in the autumn of 1999, all in accordance with the new legislation governing bowhunting.

Summary
In all, during the period 19992004, 576 arrows were released at roe deer. 561 of these shots were documented as hits. In total, 533 roe deer were harvested, which forms the basis for the following statistics. On eleven occasions, the arrows released missed the deer completely with no evidence of impact. This assumption was substantiated by the total lack of blood or body fluids on the recovered arrows. In four cases was there no evidence of wounding nor was the arrow found. In 28 cases (4.99%) evidence of a hit was documented either by body fluids found on the ground or on the arrow. These hits were considered woundings. This rate compares well with other means of harvesting roe deer in Europe. Number of bowhunters that killed roe deer
Hunting period 1999/2000 2000/2001 2001/2002 2002/2003 2003/2004 Total number of bowhunters 176 250 347 398 454 No. of bowhunters that shot deer 39 70 66 73 85 Percentage of total no. of bowhunters 22.2% 28.0% 19.0% 18.3% 18.7%

About 20% of the hunters were successful. Still there is an increasing number of hunters that choose the bow and arrow as their hunting tool. We speculate that the same reasons that drive anglers toward fishing with fly rods work with bowhunters.

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Number of shots at deer

Hunting period 1999/2000 2000/2001 2001/2002 2002/2003 2003/2004 1999/2004 Deer killed 66 106 101 126 134 533 Arrows that missed 3 1 1 1 5 11 Wounded deer* 1 4 8 8 10 32 Total 70 111 111 135 149 576

*In 28 cases there was evidence of a hit documented either by body fluids found on the ground or on the found arrow. In four cases there was no evidence of wounding nor was the arrow found. These are included in the figure for wounded deer according to the Danish National Forest and Nature Agencys policy. Eleven shots are documented by the lack of blood or other body fluids either on the ground or the recovered arrow. These are recorded as clean misses. Deer wounding rates
Hunting period 1999/2000 2000/2001 2001/2002 2002/2003 2003/2004 1999/2004 Deer shot at 70 111 111 135 149 576 Deer killed 66 106 101 126 134 533 Misses 3 1 1 1 5 11 Wounded deer 1 4 9 8 10 32 (28) Wounding % 1.49% 3.64% 8.18% 5.97% 6.94% 5.66% (4.99%)

The follow-up to this five year study resulted in an increased minimum energy requirement when the hunter chooses to hunt with a mechanical-expandable hunting head or blunt. The new minimum for the arrows kinetic energy is 70 Joules. Hunting method in relation to shots taken
Hunting period 1999/2000 2000/2001 2001/2002 2002/2003 2003/2004 1999/2004 Still hunting 24 31 41 47 59 202 Drive 22 19 20 18 17 96 Ground blind 14 29 17 31 28 119 Tree stand 10 32 33 39 45 159

Hunting method in relation to shots taken

Bow type No. of roe deer (576) Compound 565 Recurve 6 Long bow 5

Only 2% of the hunters chose a traditional bow which is slightly lower than US statistics. This might be a result of a very demanding proficiency test that stipulates five of six arrows to hit within the vital area of game targets ranging from roe deer to pheasant in size at unknown distances up to 25 metres.

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A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

Shooting distances in relation to shots taken

Distance (metres) No. of roe deer (576) 010m 109 1115m 153 1620m 183 2130m 131

Most shots (77.2%) were taken at a distance of 20 meters or less. This correlates with studies made in North America for bowhunters shooting white-tailed deer. Angle of shot in relation to shots taken
Angle No. of roe deer (576) Broadside 454 Quartering towards 79 Quartering away 43 Frontal 2

The majority of the shots (78.8%) were taken at broadside deer. Quite a few were shot at in a quartering toward situation (13.7%). This is a shot angle that most bowhunting literature refer to as a low percentage shot and may be the reason for some of the wounding. Very few shots (7.5%) were taken in the quartering away position, this is what international experts refer to as the most lethal shot with a hunting arrow. Deer movement at moment of shot
Movement type No. of roe deer (576) Standing still 491 Walking 79 Trotting 1 Galloping 0 Movement at release 5

Distance to recovery in metres from the place of impact to the place of immobility
Distance (metres) No. of roe deer (533) 0 87 025m 199 2550m 180 50100m 50 100m+ 17

In 87.4% of cases the deer was recovered within 50 metres, a figure that correlates well with rifle hunting. Degree of arrow penetration
Degree No. of roe deer (555) Arrow passed through completely 465 Full penetration with arrow remaining in deer 60 Partial penetration

10

In 87.4% of the cases the arrow passed completely through the body cavity of the deer. In 10.8% of the cases the broadhead passed through the deer with the remainder of the arrow in the deer. In 1.8% of the cases the broadhead did not pass entirely through the deer. The figures indicate strongly that the stipulated kinetic energy of 40 joules is by a wide margin enough for shots at roe deer. The figures are based on subsequently found arrows that showed evidence of a pass through. Organs penetrated by broadhead on roe deer taken
Organ No. of shots (533) Heart/ lungs 456 Liver 30 Belly 8 Neck/ spine 37 Hams 2

In some instances the arrow impacted more than one of the above areas. In these cases the hit has been designated to the most lethal category. Example: An arrow penetrating both the liver and belly has been designated as a liver hit. 85.6% of the cases was the intended target area hit.

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Ethical Bowhunting in Scotland

Wounding of bow-shot roe deer

A total of 576 arrows released at roe deer were reported. In eleven instances it is assumed the arrow missed the animal. This was substantiated by the fact that no traces of blood or body fluids were found on the recovered arrows. In four cases no blood or the arrow were found. These four are considered wounded deer by the Agency. The data in this study is cross-checked with data from the Danish Tracking Dog team reports. In four cases a tracking dog was summoned with the following results: Two deer were found 30 and 150 metres respectively from the place of arrow impact. One deer was not found by the dog, but was found dead the following day 130 metres from the place of arrow impact. One deer was never found. On one occasion, a deer was wounded by an arrow impact high in the back. The animal was paralysed and fell on the spot. It was subsequently dispatched with a knife. This deer was included in the wounded deer numbers.

Conclusion
Of 561 roe deer known to be hit, 28 were categorized as wounded, a total wounding rate of 4.99% correlating well with other means of harvesting roe deer in Europe. Anders Gejer and Richard Cadwalader European Bowhunting Federation

Swedish Bowhunting Trial

As a result of this trial, which correlates closely with the Danish trial, bowhunting was legalised in Sweden in 2009. The findings can be viewed at www.ubbc.ca/ resources/studies/archive/swedish_bowhunting_study.doc

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A draft plan to legalise bowhunting in Scotland

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bowhuntscotland.elrig.net