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The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has released a preliminary report on the 2024 deer hunting seasons, providing insights into the harvest numbers and trends that could influence future wildlife management strategies.
According to the report, the total number of deer harvested in Vermont during the 2024 hunting season is estimated at a little over 17,200. This figure translates to approximately 3.4 million servings of venison, underlining the significant contribution of hunting to local food supplies. However, the buck harvest saw a slight decline, with hunters taking an estimated 9,200 bucks, down from 9,848 in 2023 and below the previous three-year average of 9,533.
This decrease in buck harvest is primarily attributed to a less productive November hunting season, which was down about 10% from the previous year. Nick Fortin, the department’s head deer biologist, commented that while year-to-year changes might not signal large shifts in deer population dynamics, the long-term trends are more telling. “The change from one year to the next really doesn’t mean a whole lot,” Fortin noted, emphasizing the importance of observing broader trends over time.
In contrast, the antlerless deer harvest, which includes does and fawns, saw an uptick, with an estimated total of around 8,000 deer harvested, up from an average of 7,188 over the last three years. This increase aligns with the department’s strategy to manage deer population numbers in response to milder winters, which tend to support higher deer survival rates due to better food availability.
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department’s primary goal with these hunting seasons is to maintain a balanced and healthy deer population that aligns with the available habitat. Fortin explained, “Maintaining an appropriate number of deer on the landscape ensures that deer and the habitats that support them remain in good condition and productive.”
The final numbers for the 2024 season will be officially confirmed in early March, followed by informational hearings where the department will share more detailed biological data and listen to public feedback. These hearings are crucial for shaping future hunting regulations and wildlife management practices.
This preliminary report sheds light on the health of Vermont’s deer population and the effectiveness of current hunting practices, providing valuable data for both hunters and conservationists. As the final harvest report is anticipated, this information will guide discussions on how to best manage Vermont’s wildlife for sustainability and ecological balance.
