At Fieldsports Guardian, we are regularly asked, what deer can we shoot? and when can we shoot them? There are six wild deer species in the UK, (seven if you include Red/Sika hybrids) of which five species have open and closed seasons when they can and cannot be shot. Below you will find a quick and easy guide to help you determine the deer seasons we have here in the UK.
Why do we have deer seasons in the UK?
So why do we have deer seasons in the UK? Deer seasons in the UK have been created to protect our wild deer at key times during the year so that we can sustain healthy populations. The goal being to maintain a sustainable population, not eradicate. Different species have different seasons in relation to breeding and growth cycles. However, there is one exception to this, for example Muntjac have no closed season due to being an invasive species, hence the reason they have no closed season and can be shot in any month of the year. One caveat being that you should be selective whilst shooting does so that you do not leave dependant young. The law also states that sick or injured deer can be humanely shot outside of their designated seasons. In certain circumstances, special licences can also be obtained to manage deer numbers outside of their seasons.
Deer Seasons in the UK
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It's important to note that Scottish parliament have accepted the government proposal to abolish deer seasons for male deer in Scotland, meaning that as of October 21st 2023, there will be no closed season for all male deer species throughout Scotland.
It is also important to note that legally, deer may only be shot one hour before sunrise and one hour after sunset. However, night shooting can sometimes be approved by applying to one of the national statutory bodies where you must meet specific criteria for approval.
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