ABOUT THE PROJECT
The project’s main purpose is to evaluate the effects of management-relevant levels of anthropogenic disturbance on resource use and environmental impact of red deer.
We hypothesise that:
1) Tourism-related disturbance may alter habitat usage, time budgets and consequently foraging intensity of red deer.
2) Red deer maintain biodiverse short-sward grassland habitats which are refuges and breeding grounds for rare Lepidoptera species, more effectively than sheep.
3) Regular anthropogenic disturbances decrease the grazing intensity of red deer and, as such a less intensive grazing regime conducive for promoting suitable breeding habitat for rare Lepidoptera species can be established.
This work constitutes a PhD project. Expected outputs are a PhD thesis, several presentations at national and international conferences, a series of papers published in the peer-reviewed and popular literature, and information to help the owners of the Isle of Ulva decide on the future management of red deer and their habitat on the island
FURTHER READING
From Local Action to National Impact: Reducing Deer Suffering After Road Collisions
After 15 years of dedicated work by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary (HIOWC), together with essential support from Dorothy Ireland, Tony Lowry, and numerous volunteers from The British Deer Society (BDS) plus expert deer managers in Hampshire and surrounding counties, we are delighted to see the HIOWC Humane Animal Dispatch (HAD) volunteer scheme poised for a national rollout.
Support BDS and Help Protect Deer and Their Habitats
Discover how the British Deer Society is working to protect deer, their habitats, and promote sustainable wildlife management. Learn about our mission, vision, and how you can support deer welfare through education, research, and donations. Join us in making a difference for deer and the environment.
The Role of Deer Management in Conservation in the UK
Deer management plays a crucial role in supporting conservation efforts across the UK, helping to restore habitats, preserve biodiversity, and address the challenges posed by rising deer populations. This article explores the importance of balancing deer numbers with ecosystem health, highlighting the impact of culling, stakeholder collaboration, and holistic management strategies.
