Recreational hunters' view on fallow deer management in the Blue Mountains

Authors: G. Nugent, K. Mawhinney
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1987, Issue N.Z.J.For. 32(1) 1987, pp 32-35, May 1987
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

---

Abstract: A postal survey of 972 recreational hunters who used the Blue Mountains Recreational Hunting Area (RHA) in the year to March 31, 1985 produced 443 usable replies. Most hunters (63%) were between 25 and 39 years old, and most (63 %) had less than 15 years 'hunting experience. Presence of fallow deer and nearness to home were the major attractions of the RHA. The exclusive hunting block system limited hunting pressure, as70% of hunters would have hunted more often if favoured blocks were available. However, 98% preferred this system. Blocks with an average success rate of one deer per four hunting days satisfied the minimum requirements of 98% of hunters. Although hunters were generally satisfied with deer numbers in the better blocks 73 % wanted deer numbers increased, preferably by limiting hunting opportunity rather than by making hunting more difficult or by changing their usual practices.

---