Deer Counting
Why Count Deer?
Information on numbers of deer using an area can be valuable information. It can help those managing populations for sporting or conservation purposes understand how many deer there are and what resources they should use to manage that population. The deer manager will get more value from the deer census if it is used together with information such as the condition of the habitats.
There are typically two ways of estimating deer populations through direct observation or indirect counting.
Deer Counting Methods
Direct observation counts can provide deer managers with a snapshot of a population within the count area on a particular day or night. If carried out using the same method a few times they can begin to show population trends especially if they are carried out over large areas in a short period of time. They can be carried out using several methods-
- Ground counting by teams on foot
- Aerial counting using helicopters or fixed wing aircraft
- Ground counting at night using thermal imaging cameras
The most appropriate method of counting should be chosen taking into account local conditions. The video below shows Scottish Natural Heritage footage of thermal imaging count work.
Counting deer
Details of Scottish Natural Heritage direct observation counts from 2000 can be seen by accessing the map below.
Scottish Natural Heritage Deer Census Results 
Indirect counting
Where it is difficult to assess deer populations using direct observation methods deer managers can choose to assess populations by methods such as dung counting. This method involves assessing the level of dung deposited over a period of time in a specified area and estimating deer usage. This method was traditionally used in woodland areas only however some deer managers are choosing to use this method over open ground using specially designed methods.