Gwyn and Ann Evans and their children, Amy and William, are recruiting more rearers Picture: Jonathan M McGee By Debbie James Game bird rearing is providing a good secondary income for farmers looking to maximise the value of farmland. Pheasants and partridge can be produced on a small acreage and, as it is seasonal, rearing can offer a good balance to other farming activities. But to rear game birds successfully and profitably while maintaining the highest possible standards needs careful planning. The Evans family diversified into hatching and rearing pheasants and partridge over 30 years ago. Gwyn and Ann Evans founded Bettws Hall Game Farm in Powys and now run the business with their children, Amy and William.
What to consider when diversifying into pheasant rearing >More in
Gamebird rearing can provide a good secondary income for farmers looking to maximise the value of farmland.
Pheasant and partridge can be produced on a small acreage and, as it is seasonal, rearing can offer a good balance to other farming activities.
The pandemic has led to contraction in the market since it has restricted the activities of shoots but, as the industry has been on an upward trajectory for two decades, demand is likely to return in the long term.
What land area do you need?
It is possible to rear pheasants and partridges on a small plot.