Pastures and camps
A soft handling race helps deer move quietly and safely when we need to guide or inspect them.
Deer are naturally wary and quick to take fright, so we use soft handling races to move them without panic or harm. Unlike tight kraals or noisy pens, a well-designed race mimics the gentle guidance of a quiet veld path, helping deer flow forward at their own pace. This is vital for fallow, sika, chital and red deer, which all show better confidence and fewer injuries in a calm, visually sheltered passage.
We want deer to walk calmly through the race. This keeps their hearts steady and avoids bruises or breaks. When the handling race feels safe, it also means less risk for the team working alongside the deer, and calmer handling when we need to check tags, weigh animals or load the bakkie for a move.
A good handling race begins with strong posts and welded mesh or smooth timber planks, set up in a gentle curve so deer cannot see the end or bunch up. We choose solid, upright materials, never barbed wire or loose netting, which can trap legs. Where possible, we plant karee or wild olive along the race for shade and visual cover, giving deer a sense of safety and reducing heat stress.
The race floor stays level, with sharp stones raked out before each handling day. Gates are wide enough for two to three deer to move together, fitted with rubber buffers to avoid clangs. Portable races for field work often use heavy-duty panels and quick-set electric fencing. Every race is checked for gaps or snags before each use, and the route is kept free from weeds that might spook the herd.
The most common mistake is building a race with sharp corners, which causes deer to pile up and risk injury. Noisy chains, loose gates or tools lying about can all panic the herd. We avoid pale tarpaulins or bright plastic, as these are too visible and make deer shy away.
Before calving or any major move, our team checks every post and panel for loose fittings, broken welds or splintered wood. In dry seasons, we clear dust and fill in holes made by wind or hooves. After rain, we check for washouts and slippery patches. These small jobs keep the handling race ready for quiet, safe work at any time of year.
