Defra sets out plan to curb soaring deer numbers

Defra and the Forestry Commission have set out proposals to control soaring deer numbers in a bid to protect trees, wildlife habitats and crops.

Figures published by the bodies suggest the deer population has risen rapidly since the 1970s.

Deer numbers stand at two million in the latest estimate by the commission – a rise of about 450% on the 450,000 animals recorded in the 1970s.

See also: This Week in Farming: Emissions, politicians and cow picnics

With the growth in numbers, the damage caused by deer browsing on vegetation has become colossal on some farmland and estates.

The commission reported cases of individual arable farmers losing more than £1m a year to deer damage.

Timber production can also be severely hit, with final crop values reduced by up to 50% through browsing damage, the commission said.

It also pointed out that wildlife habitats in existing woodland undergrowth can be entirely wiped out. And new trees, either planted or naturally regenerated in woodland, may be grazed off by browsing deer.

In an attempt to curb numbers, Defra has launched a four-week consultation, ending on 2 September, as part of the England Tree Action Plan.

The consultation document sets out several approaches to cutting deer numbers to levels that ecosystems can support without negative effects.

These approaches include:

• Incentives to landowners to promote active and effective management
• Support and advice on how to protect crops and woodland
• Supporting the wild venison supply chain to boost traceable supply and consumption
• Amending legislation to allow increased culling

Culling

On culling, the document proposed changes to the Deer Act, which was last reviewed and amended in 2007. That review maintained a closed season for culling both male and female deer.

But the latest consultation suggested year-round culling of male deer should take place. Night shooting licences could also be relaxed because many deer have become nocturnal in areas of increased public access.

To increase culling rates, Defra suggested targeted incentives could be made to landowners via sporting leases.

Venison market

Further incentives to farmers and growers to cull deer could come via proposals to develop sustainable venison production, the consultation said. Defra could provide small grants to help farmers and processors develop the necessary equipment to supply venison to the meat trade, it suggested.

The department will also support the promotion of venison as a healthy, low-carbon red meat.

Country Land and Business Association (CLA) president Mark Tufnell welcomed the proposals.

“Excessive deer browsing can prevent new woodlands becoming established, and limit sustainable management and regeneration in existing woodland areas,” he said.

“With burgeoning populations and no natural predators, we must tackle deer numbers where they are out of balance with their environment if tree planting is to be effective in tackling climate change.”

Have your say

The full consultation document is available on Defra’s website [PDF]

Take part in the Defra survey