As the sun dips below the horizon and the Australian bush comes alive with the sounds of nocturnal creatures, a silent invader is making its presence felt across the continent. This isn’t a scene from a horror movie; it’s the reality of Australia’s growing deer problem, which is now spilling onto our roads and creating a multimillion-dollar nightmare.
With an estimated one to two million deer roaming the country, these animals have become one of Australia’s worst invasive species. Introduced in the early 1800s by European settlers seeking to recreate a slice of their homeland, deer species such as red, fallow, sambar, chital, and muntjac were brought in for recreational hunting. Little did the settlers know, they were setting the stage for an ecological imbalance that would challenge Australia’s unique ecosystems for centuries to come.
Australia’s native flora and fauna evolved in isolation, free from large browsing and grazing mammals like deer. This isolation left them ill-equipped to deal with the pressures these introduced species would bring. With no natural predators to keep their numbers in check, deer populations have exploded, leading to a cascade of environmental and economic consequences.
The Centre for Invasive Species Solutions CEO, Shauna Chadlowe, has sounded the alarm, urging Australians in every state and territory to be vigilant. The activity of these problematic pests is expected to ‘intensify’, with increased sightings and interactions, particularly on our roads. Chadlowe encourages residents to photograph and report deer sightings, which can help track the spread of these feral animals and inform control efforts.
But why is it so crucial to report deer sightings? Tracking their movements is not just about knowing where they are; it’s about predicting where they will be. Feral deer can reside in an area for months or even years before their presence becomes a concern for the community. By the time the problem is recognised, deer numbers may have grown significantly, making control efforts both expensive and time-consuming. Early detection is key to keeping deer populations in check and minimising their impact.
DeerScan, a reporting tool, allows land management agencies and councils to use citizen-reported data to direct community awareness, education, and control efforts where they are needed most. This coordinated approach is essential, as deer are known to move between properties daily, requiring a strategic and collaborative response.
The problems caused by feral deer are multifaceted. Dr Annelise Wiebkin, National Deer Management Coordinator for the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, points out that extreme weather events are pushing deer into new areas. This means residents may encounter deer in places they’ve never been seen before. To counter their breeding rate, a staggering 35-50% reduction in deer numbers per year is necessary, achievable only through strategic, frequent, and timely control efforts.
Many Australians (almost 40%) are unaware of the feral deer issue, highlighting the need for increased awareness and action. Feral deer damage native vegetation and ringbark trees, create wallows, trample undergrowth, and spread weed seeds, threatening native flora and fauna. They also pose a significant threat to agriculture by damaging crops and fences, leading to substantial economic losses for farmers. Moreover, deer are carriers of diseases like chronic wasting disease and tuberculosis, which can spread to native wildlife and livestock, further disrupting ecosystems.
The economic toll of feral deer is staggering. In 2021, they were responsible for approximately $91.3 million in costs to the Australian economy, including $69.1 million in agricultural losses. Public expenditure on control efforts reached $17.8 million, underscoring the ongoing challenge of managing deer populations. The impact extends to infrastructure, with deer-related motor vehicle collisions causing an estimated $3.3 million in damages and train collisions adding another $1.2 million.
For more information on addressing the deer problem, Australians can explore additional resources here.
Australia’s growing feral deer population presents unique challenges for communities, wildlife, and land management. As discussions continue on how best to address this issue, diverse perspectives can help shape effective and sustainable solutions.
What are your thoughts on the rising feral deer population in Australia? How can communities and individuals contribute to ongoing control efforts? We invite you to share your insights and suggestions in the comments below.
Also read: Local ecological defenders tackle the rising tide of invasive species
