Farmers in England to gain stronger deer control powers

Farmers, land managers and foresters across England will be given faster, simpler powers to control deer under a new 10-year government strategy aimed at protecting crops, timber and wildlife.

The move follows estimates that one-third of England’s woodlands are now damaged by deer, with excessive browsing and trampling preventing young trees from establishing and harming sensitive habitats.

Deer damage also affects wetlands, with recent surveys of the Norfolk Broads showing more than 10% of rare fen habitat impacted.

See also: Deer management powers reshaped in Scotland

Ministers warn that without urgent action, pressure from deer could undermine tree-planting targets, nature recovery, and domestic timber production.

The package includes grants, expert advice, and streamlined licensing, designed to allow land managers to “better protect crops, timber and habitats where there is a clear need.”

Easing restrictions

The government also plans to consult on easing restrictions for night shooting and removing the close season for male deer, potentially allowing year-round culling. Scotland introduced a similar measure in 2023, permitting red deer stags to be shot throughout the year.

Nature minister Mary Creagh said: “This government is helping landowners and farmers manage deer impacts more effectively so woodlands can flourish and crops are better protected.

“These new measures will also help restore nature, boost our home-grown timber industry and protect the millions of trees we are planting across the country.”

Officials say Britain’s six deer species – only red and roe truly native – now number more than two million, up from about 450,000 in the 1970s.

Booming populations, including three non-native species, are putting unsustainable pressure on young trees and vital habitats, with surveys showing impacts have risen sharply over the past two decades.

Sensitive habitats relied upon by species such as dormice and nightingales are particularly threatened.

Farmer support

Many farmers facing crop losses and rising fencing costs are expected to welcome the reforms.

Andrew Blenkiron, manager of the Elveden Estate on the Suffolk-Norfolk border, said: “We began working with Defra on this over three years ago, so it’s encouraging to see the new deer management strategy announced.

“The proposals to consult on control periods and simplify licensing for night shooting are very positive. We aim for a sustainable, managed deer population, and culling remains the most effective tool.”

He added that fencing trials at Elveden showed deer simply move to neighbouring areas, increasing grazing pressure there.

Rebecca Chaney of the Woodland Trust said: “Our native deer species are a much-valued part of our biodiversity. Sadly, with no natural predators to keep numbers at sustainable levels, they are causing serious damage to woodland habitats and wildlife right across the country.”

Venison market boost

The government will also support the domestic wild venison market, including backing the British Quality Wild Venison Standard, and is exploring serving venison in hospitals, schools and prisons to boost demand.

Conservationist Chris Packham has also voiced his support for greater control of deer numbers.

He said: “If we want to reforest, if we want sustainable populations of woodland birds and butterflies, we currently have no other options. A joined up national policy implemented and supported by science will make a difference for biodiversity.”