MUNTJAC: MANAGING AN ALIEN SPECIES. By Charles Smith-Jones. De luxe leather-bound edition.

2004 1st edition. De luxe issue. 8vo (165 x 242mm). Pp216. Colour photographs, b/w vignette illustrations. Fully bound in deep-brown goatskin, four raised bands, spine titled in gilt, marbled end-papers, silk marker ribbon. Matching cloth-bound slipcase.

Since the introduction of the muntjac to Britain in the nineteenth century their numbers have increased spectacularly and they continue to spread. In this essential new manual Charles Smith-Jones examines the state of the muntjac population and discusses options for managing it creatively. Chapters include: Introducing the muntjac - origins, natural distribution, introduction to Britain and spread, distribution today, urban and rural populations, problem areas; Natural history - morphology, antlers, social structure and territory, breeding, tracks and signs; Management principles - the need to cull, exclusion and deterrents, public considerations, urban challenges, census techniques and a balanced population, cull selection, basic stalker training; Equipment - rifles, calibres and bullets, telescopes and accoutrements; Range work, including the DSC1 Test (a minimum standard); Stalking technique; Carcase handling and preparation; Health and disease of the muntjac; Future possibilities for the species; Further reading and contacts. Appendices include recipes and Deer Stalking - A Code of Practice. A pioneering book which will set the standard for years to come, and no doubt influence the background to muntjac management as the situation continues to evolve. This de luxe edition is very handsomely bound in natural goatskin (not muntjac unfortunately), and is numbered and signed by the author.