DPIRD taking to the skies over Harvey this week to gather data on the growing population of feral deer

Helicopters will be taking to the skies over Harvey this week to better understand the growing population of feral deer across the region.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will be conducting aerial surveys over agricultural properties and conservation areas in Harvey, Esperance and Muchea, as part of its ongoing Deer Action Plan.

With surveys in 2023 identifying rusa deer in Harvey and red deer in Esperance and Muchea, DPIRD are working to prevent new populations becoming established and continuing to control these existing populations.

DPIRD development officer Dr Stuart Dawson said feral deer populations in WA had the potential to grow quickly causing huge damage to the natural environment.

“Feral deer can cause a range of impacts, from wrecking pasture and crops, to damaging fences, to eating or ringbarking native plants which can lead to habitat destruction for local fauna,” he said.

“DPIRD is targeting areas surrounding Muchea, Esperance and Harvey, where there are known populations of feral deer, to collect baseline data on population distribution and density.”

Dr Dawson said the data would help the development of management strategies to develop best practice control measures.

“Thermal imaging cameras will be used to detect the heat signatures of feral deer through gaps in vegetation and canopy cover,” he said.

“This survey is a continuation of survey work conducted in 2023 and will facilitate future pest research and control operations.”

Populations of feral pigs would also be identified during these surveys to help in control activities.

DPIRD has informed landholders in the area about the surveys and will be working with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions on other deer research initiatives.

Sightings of rusa deer should be reported to DPIRD’s Pest and Disease Information Service by emailing padis@dpird.wa.gov.au or on 9368 3080.