Community Urged to Report Feral Deer Sightings During Peak Rutting Season

The feral deer population is currently confined to Loxton North, and the landscape board is working hard to prevent their spread. Community assistance in spotting and reporting sightings is crucial to keep this population from growing and spreading to other areas.

Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board Senior District Officer Jamie Courtney says rut season is the perfect time for the community dob in any deer activity.

“During the rut, which typically occurs in March and April, male deer are on the move as they search for a mate, making them more active and visible,” Jamie said. “This increased movement gives the community a chance to assist the landscape board by reporting sightings, helping us build a clearer picture of where these invasive species are causing problems.”

Feral deer damage crops, compete with native wildlife for food and shelter, and cause erosion and land degradation. Reporting sightings is a simple and powerful way the community can help manage their growing impact.

Dob in a Deer

As part of the Dob in a Deer project, new roadside signs have recently been installed in Loxton North, reminding residents and visitors to report sightings.

Jamie stressed the importance of community involvement in managing this invasive pest.

“Loxton North is in a really unique situation where local eradication of feral deer is achievable if we are supported by the local community” Jamie said. “When we know their location, population size and movements, then we can take action to control them.”

“We are asking the community to assist us by reporting deer sightings and actively controlling the animals on their properties.” Jamie said.

Under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019, landholders are legally obligated to control feral deer, just as they are with other pests like foxes and rabbits.

This project is supported by the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board through funding from the landscape levies