What Are Signs of an Unhealthy Deer Population in the Area?

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Monitoring Habitat and Forage Quality Deer populations in New Hampshire, like elsewhere, thrive when they have access to high-quality forage and suitable habitat. Monitor the types and amounts of vegetation available to deer, particularly during the winter months when forage is scarce. Aim to maintain a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, along with berry-producing shrubs and grasses, to provide a balanced diet. In particular, pay attention to the quality and quantity of white-tailed deer preferred food sources like leaves, twigs, and buds from trees like oak, maple, and aspen.
Identifying Disease and Parasites New Hampshire deer are susceptible to diseases such as chronic wasting disease (CWD) and epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD). These diseases can be detected through surveillance efforts, including blood sampling and necropsies. Additionally, deer can be affected by parasites like ticks and lungworms, which can be identified through physical examinations and fecal sampling. If you notice an unusual number of deer deaths or a high incidence of parasites, report your findings to local wildlife authorities.
Analyzing Deer-Related Vehicle Collisions An unhealthy deer population can lead to increased deer-vehicle collisions, which can be costly and deadly for both deer and humans. In New Hampshire, deer-vehicle collisions are a significant concern, with over 6,000 reported incidents annually. To monitor deer-vehicle collisions, track the location and time of day when collisions occur, as well as the number of deer involved. This information can help identify areas where deer are most active and may be contributing to an unhealthy population.