More hunters needed to cull Ireland’s booming deer population

Anyone without a criminal record can now train to cull deer as the National Deer Management Programme seeks more hunters to tackle the species’ surging numbers.

The deer rutting season peaks in October, and hormonal animals often charge onto roads, increasing the risk to motorists. Drivers have been urged to remain vigilant, and calls have grown for a higher cull rate to reduce road‑traffic incidents.

National Deer Management Programme spokesperson Michael Keegan told The Claire Byrne Show that landowners with deer problems should contact the programme. “You can either engage the services of a hunter yourself or you can work through us,” he said, adding that the programme can provide hunter details and arrange cooperation between landowner and hunter.

With no apex predators since the extinction of wolves, Ireland’s deer numbers have exploded, impacting forestry and biodiversity. In 2025, 79,000 deer were culled during the open season; this year’s figure is expected to be higher.

Keegan explained that while private individuals cannot shoot deer directly, training courses that qualify people to hunt are “open to anyone”. Applicants must have no criminal record, obtain a gun licence and complete the relevant training before they can hunt.

The programme is also establishing deer management groups across the country in partnership with landowners and hunters to create a more structured, nationwide approach.

Source: Newstalk. Photo: Mid-Kerry Media / Pexels.