NatureScot has launched two innovative pilot programs to financially assist deer managers in controlling deer populations in specific regions of Scotland, in response to the ongoing climate and nature crises.

Recognising that most deer culling in Scotland is conducted by private landowners and individuals at their own expense, applications are now open for two incentive schemes aimed at supporting this vital management in targeted areas of the central belt and Highlands.

Through these pilots, qualified and eligible deer stalkers will receive payments for culling additional deer beyond the current levels in these regions.

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Deer populations have grown both in numbers and in range over the past 50 years. While deer are a valuable component of Scotland’s biodiversity, their high populations can negatively impact habitats, particularly woodlands, through trampling and browsing.

Expanding woodlands is crucial to combat climate change and biodiversity loss, but achieving this is challenging in areas with high deer densities.

It is estimated that a 25% increase in the national deer cull, equating to 50,000 additional deer annually across all species, will be required over several years to meet the ambitious targets outlined in the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy, aiming to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and restore nature across Scotland by 2045.

Deer also cause damage to commercial forestry, agricultural crops, and increase the risk of road traffic collisions.

One pilot covers a 959 km² area north of Glasgow and west of Stirling, focusing on lowland and urban roe deer management, as well as expanding red deer populations.

The second pilot will cover a 527 km² area on the southeastern side of Loch Ness in the Highlands, with a focus on controlling invasive non-native sika deer in critical native woodlands and commercial forestry.

The growing number of deer in the lowlands and the spread of sika were identified as key priorities in the 2020 report by the independent Deer Working Group.

Meanwhile, the Cairngorms National Park Authority will run a third scheme aimed at reducing red deer hind numbers in the National Park.

The insights gained from these pilots will inform future initiatives to support deer management across Scotland.

Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie stated: “We know that Scotland is facing a nature loss crisis. Unsustainable deer numbers are exacerbating the problem as large populations continue to damage our plant life.

“Landowners have a significant role in helping us meet this challenge. These schemes will encourage responsible and sustainable wildlife management practices that align with our goals for both the climate and our natural environment.”

Donald Fraser, NatureScot’s Head of Wildlife Management, added: "Globally and in Scotland, nature is in decline, and we face a climate emergency. Greater urgency is required to meet the challenges of these twin crises and Scotland has ambitious targets to do so.

“Sustainable deer management is a vital part of this. We know, however, that 80% of deer management is carried out by the private sector at a net cost to deer managers. These innovative pilot schemes will give extra support to those working hard on the ground to tackle high deer numbers in certain areas.

“This will help bring the number of deer in balance with the rest of nature so that our woodlands, forests, peatlands and other habitats can recover and thrive.

“Deer management and the jobs and skills associated with it can also bring significant benefits for the rural economy and that’s why these pilots will also investigate future training support as well as exploring the barriers and opportunities to increasing the supply of venison to local communities.”