2023 - The British Deer Society

A Big Difference for Deer & Evidence-Based Deer Management is in the Making Thanks to the Big Give

Over the last decade the Big Give platform has helped raise £281,104,727 for 1,000’s of charities across the UK. This year, for the first time, the British Deer Society (BDS) decided to take the leap and take part in the Big Give’s Christmas Challenge. Our campaign successfully raised over £13,000 to initiate a series of drone surveys at selected locations across the UK.

Life on a Highland Estate in the Post-Close Season Era

BDS member Linda Mellor provides a firsthand account of the recent changes in deer policy and their profound impact on both the deer and the local community. As a resident of a highland estate intimately connected to the land and its traditions, Linda sheds light on the repercussions of the removal of the close season for male deer in Scotland, offering a glimpse into the intricate balance between tradition, wildlife management, and community feeling.

Surveillance for Coronaviruses in Wildlife

The British Deer Society is asking its members and supporters to assist with a surveillance study looking into coronaviruses in wildlife. This study aims to support the development of diagnostic tests, aid future surveillance, and improve preparedness for future coronavirus outbreaks.

BDS CEO Goes Live On TalkTV To Promote Fact-led Deer Management

David Mcauley, British Deer Society (BDS) CEO went live on TalkTV and Radio at the weekend to promote the importance of having more fact-led approaches in deer management, less sensationalism in the media around total UK deer numbers and to speak up for deer welfare.

Deer Management in the UK: Sustainability Verses Eradication

Recently, we received a heartfelt letter from a dedicated member of the British Deer Society (BDS), a seasoned deer stalker with 30 years of experience who was dismayed by the indiscriminate and unsustainable shooting of roe deer around his management areas. His words shed light on the evolving challenges faced by conscientious deer managers who prioritise legal and humane practices in an environment where not all shooters share the same values.

The Crossroads of Wild Venison Production: Challenges as December 2023 Approaches

As we approach the end of 2023, wild venison production is encountering challenges that demand our attention. Game dealers are currently offering between 50p and one pound per kilogram for deer carcasses, and reports suggest that some may not accept carcasses in December. Let’s dive into some key insights shared by Nick Rout, Head of Education and Training at the BDS, and a manager of deer in East Anglia.

Fact or fiction? UK deer numbers are at their highest levels in 1000 years – at around 2 million.

Since 2022 a story of 2 million deer and soaring deer populations in the UK has slowly been repeated (and repeated) – but is it the truth?

Visit To Creag Meagaidh

In late October 2023, members of the BDS Highland Branch visited the Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve (NNR), a 4,000-hectare area managed by NatureScot, located on the north shore of Loch Laggan in Scotland.

Inspiring Young Minds to Embrace and Cherish the Environment

Imagine the heartwarming sight of over 500 primary school children from Leeds and the surrounding areas, gathering at Ledston Estate for a three-day outdoor learning event. Despite facing challenging weather conditions, these young minds radiated enthusiasm and resilience. Through a collaborative effort with Countryside Learning and partners, the British Deer Society (BDS) was delighted to support this opportunity, with a shared commitment to nurturing an enduring appreciation for the environment in the generations to come.

Removal of Male Deer Seasons – Response to BDS Opinion Survey

“Male deer numbers have a lesser impact on overall population growth as it is of course the females that actually produce more deer. Allowing male deer of the larger species to be shot during the female deer open season has historically distracted efforts to control the latter and curb their breeding potential.”