On 7–8 May 2026, students visited the Controlled Hunting Area (CHA) of Koziakas and the gamebird breeding station operated by the Trikala Forest Service. The field programme provided an opportunity to become familiar with the practical management of a controlled hunting area and to discuss the role of such areas in game management and sustainable hunting.
An important part of the visit focused on captive breeding techniques for two gamebird species of ecological and economic importance: the Rock Partridge (Alectoris graeca) and the Grey Partridge (Perdix perdix). Students were introduced to practical approaches used in their breeding and management and had the opportunity to discuss these practices directly with professionals working in the field. Dr. Vagelis Kotsonas and Dr. Nikos Manios contributed to the programme by sharing their expertise and practical experience with the students.
The practical learning continued on 15 May with a visit to the Chrisopigi Game Farm. Here, students further explored approaches to game management and sustainable hunting and could relate the practices observed in the field to the knowledge gained during their university studies.
These field trips represent an important part of the SHUNTDIEM approach to education. Direct exposure to wildlife and game management practice helps students understand how scientific knowledge and management principles are translated into everyday decisions and activities. At the same time, interaction with practitioners provides valuable insight into the professional context in which future wildlife and hunting specialists will work.
By connecting university education with field-based learning, SHUNTDIEM contributes to developing the practical competencies needed for responsible wildlife management and sustainable hunting tourism in Europe.
