SkyView Helicopters - Predator Control

Because of the varied experience of our staff, Skyview is able to offer a wealth of services. Please choose from the list to the right to discover how we may be able to serve you.

Predator Control:

The Texas Parks and Wildlife closely monitor predator control.  Predators are an integral part of an ecosystem; it is sometimes desirable to control their numbers just as it is a deer population. Implementation of a predator control program may be an effective tool in protecting some wildlife species as well as your valuable crops and livestock.

While predator control is a necessary part of any management program, it is very different from sport hunting and requires a special permit.  SkyView Helicopters holds a permit from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to perform this service. Wildlife Management is performed from one of our very safe and reliable Robinson Helicopters, flown by an experienced commercial pilot.

Animals that can be controlled by aircraft are coyotes, coyote/dog crosses, bobcats, feral hogs and red fox.

The technique requires an experienced pilot and a capable gunner. Helicopters are the primary tool used for aerial hunting in Texas.  The preferred firearm is generally a 12-gauge auto-loading shotgun. Preferred loads are 3" magnum copper plated, buffered #4 buckshot. This load provides good penetration and knockdown capability, which is desirable for humane kills.

A ground crew of several individuals walking or riding horseback, on ATV's, or hunting with dogs through the area can enhance success.

Advantages of aerial hunting are (1) it is very selective since only target animals are taken, (2) a depredation or damage problem can be stopped in a short period of time, and (3) large numbers of animals can be removed in a short period of time.

Before an aerial hunt can be conducted a “Landowners Authorization Form” must be filled out prior to the day of the hunt, and a “Landowner Permit” must be issued by Texas Parks and Wildlife.  We will handle all of the needed forms and permits.

Rates: For more information contact us at 806-712-1333 or send e-mail to: info@skyviewhelicopters.net

Tour Rates are based on the length of tour and departure point. All hourly billing rates require a one-hour minimum starting at the aircraft boarding location. All billing is to 1/10 of an hour as read on the aircraft Hobbs meter.  Transport of helicopter to and from boarding location is billed at $1.95 per nautical air mile as read on the aircraft GPS from our base at Biggin Hill Airpark near Shallowater, Texas.