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BOWHUNTER EDUCATION PROGRAM INTRODUCTION Primitive man has hunted for centuries if not longer with bows and arrows. Their very survival depended on their skill with this weapon which has been described as mans third greatest invention which include, fire and the wheel. There has been a revival in this ancient skill in modern man, who is motivated by a greater hunting challenge and the desire to take on wild quarry on more equal terms. Bowhunting also dictates that the hunter, to be successful, must also become extremely knowledgeable in a wide spectrum of nature related skills such as understanding animal behaviour, stalking and tracking skills, the art of camouflage - to name but a few. There exists therefore a learning niche or window of opportunity if you will, to teach environmentally sensitive bowhunting methodology which is not only ethical but also arouses in the individual a keen interest in nature in the wider sense, a sense of accountability and a sense of moral responsibility towards wildlife and the environment. This Bowhunter Education training program is accredited by the South African Bowhunting Association (SABA) and the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC). COURSE CONTENT Course participants are provided with training manuals before attending the course to give them time to begin working through the material. The four day course deals with all aspects of bowhunting from the very basics to advanced aspects. The main objectives are the following: On a basic level OBJECTIVE 1: This is an introduction to the skills associated with bowhunting. The long term objective is to encourage and promote the skills of bowhunting and an appreciation of nature. Emphasis is placed on ethics and the fun of shooting a bow. By the end of this course the learner should have a basic understanding of the following:
On an intermediate level: OBJECTIVE 2: The learner now moves on to more challenging aspects of bowhunting which impart the skills to sneak up to an intended quarry and to develop good shooting technique. The aspect of ethics is fleshed out and the participant is also informed of sound conservation principles such as sustainable resource utilization. By the end of this course the learner should have a basic understanding of the following:
On a more advanced level” OBJECTIVE 3: The learner now moves onto advanced work with bow and arrow setup and advanced shooting techniques being taught. Mental aspects of shooting are also addressed as well as field skills which are imperative for successful bowhunting. By the end of this course the learner should have a basic understanding of the following:
The course is presented as formal lectures and followed up by practical application of what is learned in the classroom. On the last day of the course participants write an exam and undergo a practical evaluation. Both must be passed with a score of 70% or higher. On successful completion of the course learners will be presented with a certificate of competency from Eagle’s Wing training and from the South African Bowhunting Association (SABA). Should the participant score lower than 70% in either of the assessments they will still be provided with a certificate of attendance from Eagle’s Wing training. VENUE Mpumalanga The Mpumalanga venue is at the Southern African Wildlife College situated in the Kruger National Park. Here learners are provided with accommodation and meals. EQUIPMENT YOU MUST BRING WITH YOU Your training manual (which you will receive when you pay your deposit to attend the course). Your bow, at least 8 arrows, with fieldpoints and three broadheads. Camo clothing (if you have). Rangefinder (optional). If you do not have your own bow and arrows you may hire equipment at R100 / day additional to the course fee. COST cceagleswing@mweb.co.za or 082-9225547. |