BDS Survey of Deer Distribution & Abundance

5 February, 2020

Every five years the BDS conducts a survey of deer distribution across the United Kingdom. The results provide data which is invaluable to national and regional policy makers, researchers, land managers and many others, and, over the years, the resulting maps have built up an essential picture of the fortunes of deer in this country.

This year will mark our most comprehensive survey yet as we will not just be recording deer presence but also looking to establish actual densities. To ensure success we need your help. All that we ask is that you visit a survey area within an allocated 1km square during March/April and August/September and record the deer signs that you find. More details can be found here .

If you would like to volunteer to assist with this exciting and ambitious project simply email Charles Smith-Jones at technical@bds.org.uk or write to HQ BDS, giving your name, contact details and home county & postcode. Survey locations will be as convenient as possible to your home, or perhaps you would prefer to survey somewhere else that you visit frequently, in which case just include details.

Maps, checksheets and full instructions will be sent out shortly (if you do not have access to email, please ensure that you include your full postal address).