Dr Annelise Wiebkin is co-ordinating national action to reduce the damage feral deer cause to farms and the environment (Photo: Centre For Invasive Species Solutions)

August 11, 2021

A new website launched on Wednesday aims to support national efforts to tackle the growing feral deer problem.

Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said feral deer were becoming a major problem across Australia.

“Feral deer cause significant impacts on agriculture, the environment and are a road safety concern in parts of Australia,” Minister Littleproud said.

“The new website will support the development and delivery of the National Feral Deer Action Plan, raise awareness of feral deer impacts, and provide strategies and tools for managing feral deer.

“It provides a platform for communities wanting to manage the impacts of feral deer in their local area, and to share knowledge of what is and isn’t working, through videos, podcasts and events. It will also provide access to news articles and updates on research findings.

“The website will help groups across the country to co-ordinate their efforts to control feral deer and share knowledge on how to manage impacts.”

The National Feral Deer Action Plan is being developed by a national working group, led by Dr Annelise Wiebkin, the National Deer Management Coordinator.

Feral deer cause damage to Australia’s natural environment and agricultural businesses by trampling plants, grazing, and ring-barking young trees, fouling waterholes, causing soil erosion, spreading weeds and potentially transmitting livestock diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease.

  • External link: The new Feral Deer website

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