Cooler weather means more feral deer

THE recent cooler weather has seen an increase in feral deer numbers in urban areas, especially in escarpment fringe suburbs.

Traditionally, May is when more deer are seen in and around the city as the rut marks mating season and the younger males are pushed out by more dominant males.

Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said this time of year more deer can be more easily spotted in parts of the city.

“We’re asking people to be more aware as they move around – particularly after dark or in the early hours of the morning when deer are more likely to be on the move,” he said.

“We have already had reports of deer along the motorway and we have seen deer in Montague Street in North Wollongong. It is important drivers are on their guard as they can do a great deal of damage to a vehicle.’’

Council has been part of the Illawarra Feral Deer Management Program for more than a decade. It is one of the largest control programs in Australia and since 2011 more than 7600 feral deer have been killed.

“Deer are a significant problem for Wollongong and it’s not something Council is going to solve on its own,’’ Cr Bradbery said.

“We have been advocating for some time to ensure that all levels of Government are working collaboratively to manage this feral species that can devastate our natural environment and have an impact on private property.

“We are committed to continuing to work with the South East Local Land Services to support the deer culling program and other initiatives that seek to reduce their numbers.’’

Community can also support the management of feral deer by reporting sightings through FeralScan. Information about sightings shared on the website is used to plan future control programs.

Council’s website also has information and advice for those who may get deer in their gardens or on their property.

Injured deer should be reported to NSW Police or the RSPCA.

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