Wildlife Management

We use the helicopter as a tool for serious wildlife management. We conduct aerial game surveys, which are the preferred method under TPWD’s MLDP (Managed Lands Deer Program) because they offer an unmatched view of the landscape and its deer populations. From the air, we can observe herd health, age structure, and true composition—key details that help TPWD biologists make accurate permit and management recommendations. If a landowner doesn’t already have an MLDP in place, we can assist with the setup and communication with TPWD.

We also use the helicopter for depredation work, targeting both predators and invasive species like aoudad. Predator control—especially for coyotes—is often integrated into our mule deer surveys, but can fly for the superficial purposes of depredation as well. Aoudad are typically found in rugged, high-elevation areas where our experienced pilots and properly equipped helicopters excel.

We offer wildlife capture services as well. Our team uses hand-fired net guns to entangle and subdue the animal, then we carefully restrain it, blindfold and hobble it, and secure it in a heavy-duty sack. From there, we longline the animal to a designated location, delivering it safely to the client.

Everyone at TMA are landowners themselves. We understand the importance of respecting property boundaries and the wishes of the landowner above all else. Our methods come from years of hands-on experience managing our own lands, not from theory. And just like our ranch support operations, every project is conducted with total discretion.

*Texas House Bill 716, or the Pork Chopper Bill, was passed in 2011 under Rep. Sid Miller. This bill legalized the shooting of feral hog and coyotes from helicopters in Texas. Texas House Bill 5398 was officially signed into law in May of 2025 amending the Pork Chopper Bill to include aoudad sheep as an applicable species. See our other projects for a deeper dive into this subject.