Welcome to the Veterinary Association for Wildlife Management

The management of wildlife in the United Kingdom has, in recent years, become an important, sometimes contentious, subject. It is also a subject in which misunderstandings and prejudices are common. However a balanced and healthy wildlife population will not result from a "hands off" approach. Man has a responsibility to manage the present day countryside he has created and to preserve the health and vigour of wild animal populations therein, particularly those without natural predators.

Veterinary surgeons have a unique understanding of the anatomical, physiological, neurological, pathological and epidemiological principles that must be followed if we are to make sound judgements about the management and welfare of wild animals. Many veterinary surgeons also have direct experience, through their work, of the importance and effects of wildlife management.

Subjects on which a veterinary contribution to the debate is currently required include:

• Management of badgers and the control of bovine tuberculosis
• Management and control of disease in wild deer
• The humane culling of other over successful species e.g. Cormorants, seals, grey squirrels, mink and foxes
• Re-introduction and control of exotic species e.g. Wolves, bears, beavers, wild boar
• Wildlife hospitals and the treatment of wild animals

The Veterinary Association for Wildlife Management (VAWM) has been formed to enable veterinary surgeons collectively to contribute to debates about wildlife management, and to educate and inform others who are interested in the subject, including policy makers.