BALLISTICS OF A BIOBULLET DELIVERY SYSTEM

We conducted field and laboratory trials to evaluate a new biobullet d elivery system for wildlife management. During field trials on white-t ailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) we determined the terminal velocit y (146 m/sec) necessary for acceptable biobullet delivery. Consistent projectile penetration was achieved with a pressure setting of 450 psi when 3 m from the deer and 540-550 psi at 20 m. Acceptable penetratio n was based on recovery of placebo biobullets or silicone implants fro m deer shot previously. Laboratory calibration trials established the pressure settings required for acceptable penetration at a given dista nce within the limitations of the delivery system. After determining t he appropriate biobullet terminal velocity for a particular species, p ressure settings can be calculated for delivery at a selected distance .