DEER-POACHING is now at unprecedented levels nationally and is the main contributory factor in the reduction of numbers, according to the Wild Deer Association of Ireland.
This view was reflected in a survey conducted by the group which found that 83 per cent of deer-hunters and 71 per cent of forest managers said there had been an increase in poaching.
The group, which is a representative body for deer-stalkers and managers, said it believed the increase was due to the current economic climate and high venison prices. It said the lack of resources in policing the Wildlife Acts, under which deer is a protected species, was also a factor.
“Deer are also under additional pressure following the recent severe weather conditions, with many animals in poor condition,” the association said.
“While deer are now seen in some areas they have not been seen before, it is not clear if this is due to an increase in deer numbers or due to increased deer habitat such as new forestry plantations, or the increase in poaching which causes deer to flee to new areas.”
Since 2005, the number of licences issued by the Minister for the Environment to cull deer had increased from 2,582 to 4,118 which resulted in an increased number of cullings – 18,750 in 2005-06 to 34,683 2009-10.
“Based on returns made by licensed deer-hunters to the Department of the Environment, 40 per cent of the deer culled nationally were culled in Co Wicklow,” the statement added.
“While there is evidence of ‘hotspots’ of overpopulation in some areas, it is believed most are in Co Wicklow.”
It said the introduction of a tagging system to allow for better local deer management and traceability of culled deer was recently discussed with former minister for the environment John Gormley to defeat poaching.