September 2000

Introduction
The Trust manages between 4000 and 5000 deer in 12 parks in England and Wales and 1 in Northern Ireland.

Management of deer is also an important aspect of the Trust's work in the countryside. Deer are an accepted and often welcome part of UK biodiversity but mature deer have no natural predators. As a result populations can increase and cause damage to wild plant communities and crops. Numbers of most deer species are increasing and two species, Roe and Muntjac, are extending their range.

Adjustment to agricultural and forestry programmes can help to minimise any damage caused by the deer but as part of this management programme deer usually have to be killed.

Overview
This paper sets out a framework of policy and principles for managers and those responsible for public information and education. It is presented under the following section headings:

• Guidelines on the Management of Wild Deer;
• Guidelines on the Management of Park Deer;
• Minimum Standards for Stalkers and Conditions of Employment;
• Health and Safety and Hygiene Requirements in the Culling of Deer and the Capture of Live Deer.

There are some other key publications which all managers should have readily available. These are highlighted in the Selected Bibliography.

Information about close seasons and permitted firearms is in Useful Information.