Feral Deer

Feral deer have become a significant pest in Australia, impacting natural environments, agriculture, and communities. In the wild, feral deer eat, ringbark, rub against, and trample native vegetation, leading to habitat degradation that affects a wide range of native species. They also compete with native herbivores such as kangaroos and wallabies for food and resources, further disrupting local ecosystems.

In agriculture, feral deer cause substantial damage by grazing on pasture, crops, and young forestry plantations. They also damage fences and other farm infrastructure and can carry diseases and parasites that threaten livestock health. These impacts contribute to considerable financial losses for farmers and land managers.

In peri-urban areas, feral deer pose risks to human safety by causing vehicle collisions and damaging parks, gardens, and revegetation projects. During the breeding season, males can become aggressive towards people and domestic animals. Feral deer are also considered a potential reservoir for diseases that could affect humans, including COVID-19.

Additionally, the presence of feral deer on private properties often attracts illegal poaching, resulting in trespassing, firearm offences, and property damage. Deer also threaten Traditional Owners' cultural heritage by damaging scar trees, signal trees, and culturally significant species like Kurrajong through their destructive behaviours.