Feral deer in Tasmania have been increasing in numbers and distribution at an alarming rate, with the current population likely exceeding 100,000 and covering 27% of the State. This ever expanding population now threatens Tasmania’s unique and outstanding natural and cultural values along with highly valued agriculture and forestry. Based on the estimated 11.5% annual growth rate, deer numbers will exceed 1 million and inhabit half the state within 30 years without significant intervention.
Deer have expanded beyond their ‘traditional’ range in the Midlands, including into the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. There are several other satellite deer populations that have established outside the ‘traditional’ deer range as a result of deer farm escapes and intentional releases. These include populations on the Tasman Peninsula, Bruny Island, Freycinet national park, near Temma, and south of Hobart. Despite some efforts, no satellite herds have been eradicated and no active local eradication programs are presently occurring.