Report Sick and Dead Deer

The NJ DEP asks for your help in reporting sick or dead deer sightings. You can do it online using the Deer Disease Sighting form. Videos and/or photos are encouraged.

Your input is critical for NJDEP Fish & Wildlife's quick response to potential disease outbreaks in New Jersey’s deer population. The valuable information you provide will add to decades of data on deer health and mortality in the state.

For example, let's keep NJ free from Chronic Wasting Disease, a progressive and fatal neurologic disease affecting members of the Cervid family such as deer, elk, moose, and reindeer.  

Information from the sighting form is useful to investigate potential disease outbreaks and to assist staff in sampling efforts. To the best of your ability, each of your sighting entries should be of new sightings. Please do not submit the same deer you see every day as a separate survey entry. If you observed sick deer that then died, please submit under the 'Dead Deer Observations' section

For example, if the same deer visits your backyard every day, this would be one entry for the entire period of the study. If you see new or additional deer, please submit a new form. Each time data is submitted, via the submit button at the bottom of this screen, it is counted as a single record. Deer reported are case-by-case assessed for sampling viability. 

NJDEP Fish and Wildlife does not remove dead deer.

Rutting Season

 

Deer rutting season in New Jersey typically begins in late October and can extend into November, but I have already seen news reports warning us that the season is upon us and that may find deer to be more active and male deer more aggressive. The exact timing can vary slightly depending on weather conditions and other environmental factors.

The term "rutting" is used to describe the mating season of deer and moose. For moose in northern areas, the Full Moon this week is often considered the start of the season. Rutting Moon was a name used by the Cree of Ontario because it's when moose start scraping the velvet from their antlers before mating season. 

The origin of the word "rut" is pretty interesting. It comes from the Old English "rot," which means "to copulate." During the rut, male deer and moose become territorial and engage in battles with other males to establish dominance and access to females. This behavior is often accompanied by loud vocalizations, such as bugling or grunting, and physical displays of strength.

So be especially careful when driving at sunrise and sunset in wooded area. Actually, for much of New Jersey (like my suburban area), you don't have to be driving in a wooded area and it can be any time of day that you may encounter deer on the road!

The Deer Rut

Buck by Ray Bilcliff on Pexels.com

The October 2023 Full Moon will be on October 28. Last month was the Harvest Moon, so this month is commonly called the Hunter Moon. The name Rutting Moon is one used by the Cree of Ontario for the September Full Moon because this was when moose would start scraping the velvet from their antlers ahead of the mating season. Here in New Jersey, the rut usually starts in October.

The rut is the period when deer mate, which usually occurs in October and can run into November or even early December in warmer areas. During this time, deer behavior changes, and hunters must adapt to those changes.==I don’t hunt but I have worked with hunter groups and I am an observer of wildlife. Bucks become more interested because their testosterone levels get them up on their feet a little earlier in the day. They will also make a series of mating vocalizations. They pursue does who are definitely in charge of mating. There is competitive fighting so injuries sustained while fighting might be evident on bucks.==Does are in heat and bucks compete for their attention. The amount of daylight each day triggers females to come into estrus. Does may be in estrus for up to 72 hours and may come into estrus up to seven times if they do not mate. During the rut, all deer tend to abandon their natural caution, move around more, and become more distracted. 

Doe by Zyla Rohly on Pexels.com

I'm writing about this topic on another blog of mine which is more human-focused, so I thought "Humans don’t have a mating season like other animals." Yes, humans are classified as continuous breeders, which means they mate year-round. Women ovulate every 28 days. But more humans are conceived during the winter. Statistics show that the period between October and January is the most preferred period for starting a pregnancy.

I’m sure that is mostly because more people are indoors together for longer periods. Snuggling up on a cold night might be a factor. The end-of-year holiday and parties might also play a part in our mating. Maybe humans do have a mating period. I know I have observed males of the species in the wild doing rutting activities!

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease Found in Burlington County

The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife has confirmed Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in a deer recently sampled in Burlington County. EHD is not a threat to public health, but we advise against consuming meat from any game animal that appears ill.

EHD outbreaks typically begin in late summer and disease transmission ends when the first hard frost kills the midges that carry the disease.

The Division is asking the public to be alert for deer that may be affected by EHD and to report any suspected cases. Symptoms include difficulty standing, drooling, lethargy, respiratory distress, foam from the mouth or nose, and swelling of the face, tongue, and neck. Sick or dead deer are often seen in or near water.

Reports can be made to:

• Dr. Nicole Lewis, Wildlife Veterinarian, (908) 735-6398 or nicole.lewis@dep.nj.gov
• Jodi Powers, Deer Biologist, (609) 223-6073 or jodi.powers@dep.nj.gov 

Caution During Deer Mating System

It is deer mating season in New Jersey and it is also daylight savings time. That is a combination that makes the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife and the New Jersey Department of Transportation remind motorists to drive with extra caution and watch for white-tailed deer. 

Deer are more likely to suddenly run onto roadways during this time of year – known as the fall rut -- as bucks pursue does, risking the possibility of colliding with a vehicle. Increased deer activity is more likely to occur in the early morning and around sunset, when visibility may be difficult.

“Deer are involved in thousands of collisions with motor vehicles in New Jersey each year, with the highest number occurring during the fall mating season,” Division of Fish and Wildlife Director Dave Golden said. “We urge all drivers to be especially alert to the possibility of deer suddenly darting onto roadways and to be aware of things they can do to reduce the risk of a collision and possible serious injury to themselves or their passengers.” 

Peak mating season for deer in New Jersey runs from late October throughout November and into mid-December in all areas of the state. 

Reduced lighting as well as sun glare can make it very difficult for drivers to see deer that are about to cross the road. In addition, multiple deer may cross the road at any moment, usually in single file. 

These tips can help motorists stay safe during the fall rut: 

•  Slow down if you see a deer and watch for possible sudden movement. 
• If the deer is in the road and doesn’t move, wait for the deer to cross and the road is clear. Do not try to drive around the deer. 
• Watch for “Deer Crossing” signs. Slow down when traveling through areas known to have a high concentration of deer so you have enough time to stop, if necessary. 
• Use high beams after dark if there is no oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead. High beams will be reflected by the eyes of deer on or near roads. 
• If you see one deer, assume that others may be in the area. 
• Don’t tailgate. The driver ahead might have to stop suddenly to avoid colliding with a deer. Always wear a seatbelt, as required by law. 
• Drive at a safe and sensible speed, factoring for the weather, available lighting, traffic, curves and other road conditions. 
• Do not swerve to avoid impact if a collision appears inevitable. The deer may counter-maneuver suddenly. Brake appropriately and stay in your lane. Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves to avoid a deer and instead collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure along the road. 
• Report any deer-vehicle collision to a local law enforcement agency immediately. 
• Obey the state’s hands-free device law or refrain from using cellular devices while driving.
  
  
  

For more information about white-tailed deer in New Jersey, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/deer.htm.

Motorists are encouraged to check NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for real-time travel information.

SOURCE: https://www.nj.gov/dep/newsrel/2020/20_0044.htm 

Be Alert for EHD in Deer

Image via NJDEP/Craig Lemon

The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife is asking the public to be alert for deer that may be affected by Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) and to report any suspected cases. 

Hunters will be in the field starting in early October, but hikers, bikers and walkers out in wooded areas or even suburban landscapes may encounter deer.

The Division's Office of Fish and Wildlife Health and Forensics is asking those who are out in the fields and woods of New Jersey at this time of year to be alert for deer that may be affected by Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) and to report any suspected cases to the Division. Because the disease causes fever, sick or dead deer are often seen in or near water, after drinking or attempting to cool off. Affected deer may also show reduced activity, loss of appetite and develop ulcerations on their tongue.

As the name implies, the virus (BT and EHD) causes damage to the blood vessels causing hemorrhage within the internal organs. Survivors of the infection or chronically infected individuals may become emaciated in the winter and may exhibit growth interruption or cracks in the hooves.

Sighted affected deer should be reported to the Bureau of Wildlife Management:

   Northern Region Deer Biologist - Jodi Powers, 609-259-6965

   Southern Region Deer Biologist - Joe Leskie, 609-748-2065

   Division Veterinarian - Dr. Nicole Lewis, 908-735-6398

It should be noted that HD is not a public health issue. Neither EHD nor BT viruses can be transmitted to people, and humans are not at risk by handling infected deer, being bitten by infected midges, or eating infected deer meat - although the Division of Fish and Wildlife strongly advises against consuming meat from any game animal that appears ill.

EHD virus rarely infects domestic animals, while BT is a known disease of domestic animals such as sheep, cattle, goats, and even domestic dogs. To date, no cases of livestock illness related to BT have been reported. People suspecting HD in domestic animals should have them tested for the virus.

Dark colors on the map indicate counties where EHD was confirmed by virus isolation.
Light colors indicate counties where there were suspected cases that were not confirmed. Blue indicates infections cause by EHD serotype 1 virus and red indicates infections by EHD serotype 2 virus.

More Information: Office of Fish and Wildlife Health and Forensics

First Reported Case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in NJ Deer

The NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife is advising hunters and anyone who spends time outdoors to take precautions against mosquito bites as the first reported case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in deer in New Jersey has recently been documented in Winslow Township, Camden County. Four human cases have been reported in New Jersey this year.

The disease, which is similar to West Nile virus, can infect humans, mammals and birds through the bites of mosquitoes that have fed on infected reservoir hosts. While most people infected with the EEE virus show no signs of illness and make a full recovery, the disease is serious with 4 to 5 percent of those infected developing flu-like symptoms that advance rapidly, often leading to permanent disability. The virus can also cause death.

The deer in Winslow was described as disoriented, thin, and drooling. When it was approached it was unafraid and was lying down with its head up. The deer was euthanized by a Division of Fish and Wildlife Conservation Police Officer and submitted to the NJ Department of Agriculture for testing.

Other symptoms in deer can include depression, weakness, loss of coordination, circling, seizures, blindness, excitability, aggression, and irritability. The disease appears to minimally impact deer populations in North America and is unlikely to significantly impact the overall deer population.

Most birds with EEE do not show any symptoms and never become ill. However, EEE can cause illness and death in some bird species including pigeons, pheasants, turkeys, emu, and quail. Birds infected with EEE may exhibit a staggering gait, drooping wings, twisted neck, or tremors.

If you observe wild birds or mammals exhibiting unusual behaviors or the symptoms described above, please call the Division's Wildlife Pathology Office at 908-735-6398 or the DEP Hotline at 877-WARN-DEP (877-927-6337).

The Division offers the following tips to reduce the potential for contracting EEE:

• Use insect repellent when outdoors and cover exposed skin, especially at dusk when mosquitoes are most active. 
• Standing water around homes also should be removed because mosquitoes lay their eggs in water. Host seeking mosquito activity may persist during the day at this time of year if temperatures are warm enough for mosquitos to fly (55 degrees F and higher). The first killing frost is the official end of the adult mosquito season in any given area.
• Take precautions when field-dressing harvested animals to avoid contracting potentially infectious diseases. Wear gloves when field dressing, skinning, and/or processing game. and clean knives thoroughly before and after using them. Thoroughly wash hands when through.

SOURCE: njfishandwildlife.com/news/2019/eee_advisory.htm

Chronic Wasting Disease in Deer

Captured deer being prepared for testing for CWD
NPS photo via Wikimedia

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a progressive and fatal neurologic disease affecting members of the Cervid  family such as deer, elk, moose, and reindeer. It is caused by an infectious protein called a prion. The disease results in emaciation, abnormal behavior, loss of bodily functions and eventually wears down and kills every infected animal.

It is readily spread from deer to deer and poses a serious threat to New Jersey’s deer herds. CWD has so far been found in captive and wild deer in 26 states, 4 Canadian provinces, Norway, Finland, and South Korea. The closest known occurrence to New Jersey has been in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Preventing CWD from entering New Jersey is the Division of Fish and Wildlife’s primary focus, and the Division aggressively monitors and tests for CWD in New Jersey’s deer herd.

Recent claims in the media have said that Spiroplasma bacteria are the causative agents of diseases like CWD, but those studies have never been reproduced despite extremely rigorous attempts to do so.  Years of research throughout the country have provided abundant evidence that prions are the infectious agent of CWD, and this hypothesis is accepted by state agriculture and wildlife agencies across the United States.

Additionally, overly sensationalized media stories have called CWD-infected deer “Zombie Deer” and claimed that human infection is inevitable and will be widespread.  These claims are not supported by decades of research on Chronic Wasting Disease and no cases of human disease have been linked to CWD in deer.

Surveys of New Jersey deer harvested in several deer seasons have found no evidence of the disease. Based on those surveys, the NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife is confident that if CWD was present in our state it was in less than 1% of the adult deer at that time. It would, of course, be impossible to test all of the animals in the state to say a disease is not present at all.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife is committed to providing the most up to date information regarding Chronic Wasting Disease and the health of NJ wildlife. The links below provide further information.

https://www.njfishandwildlife.com/cwdinfo.htm   Chronic Wasting Disease: Know the Carcass Transport Rules (Overview of rules of each state from the National Deer Alliance YouTube Channel) Guidance to NJ Residents Who Hunt Deer, Elk or Moose in States Where CWD is Present Urine-Based Deer Lures Advisory Since there is concern among hunters and others about the disease spreading to New Jersey, a "Questions and Answers" document about CWD was created by the Division's Office of Fish and Wildlife Health and Forensics and is regularly updated. Links to information about the disease and the surveys are below. Chronic Wasting Disease FAQs (pdf, 160kb) Updated February, 2019 Chronic Wasting Disease Survey Information, 1997-2018 (pdf, 330kb) Updated February, 2019 Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan 2013 (pdf, 223kb) Notice Regarding Possession/Importation of Live Cervids (pdf, 220kb) Updated December, 2018 Chronic Wasting Disease Functional Prion Genotype Survey, 2006 (pdf, 260kb) Chronic Wasting Disease Alliance's website.

Deer Mating Season Plus Shorter Days Make for Driving Cautions

Motorists are reminded to drive with extra caution and watch for white-tailed deer as deer mating season gets under way and darkness arrives earlier, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife announced.

White-tailed deer become more active during mating season, also known as the fall rut. During this time of year deer are more apt to suddenly run onto roadways as bucks pursue does, risking the possibility of a collision with a vehicle. Increased deer activity is more likely to occur in the very early morning and around sunset when visibility can be difficult.

“Deer are involved in thousands of collisions with motor vehicles in New Jersey each year, with highest number occurring during the fall mating season,” Division of Fish and Wildlife Director Larry Herrighty said. “We strongly urge all motorists to be especially alert to the possibility of deer suddenly darting onto roadways and to be aware of some steps they can take to reduce the risk of serious injury to themselves or their passengers.”

Being cautious will become even more important when daylight saving time ends, causing commutes to align with the periods when deer are most active and lighting conditions may be most difficult for driving.

Low levels of light and sun glare can make it very difficult for drivers to see deer that are about to cross the road. In addition, multiple deer may cross the road at any given moment, usually in a single file.

Peak rutting season for deer in New Jersey runs from late October, through November and into mid-December in all areas of the state.

The following tips can help motorists stay safe during the fall rut:

1. If you see a deer, slow down and pay attention to possible sudden movement. If the deer is in the road and doesn’t move, wait for the deer to pass and the road is clear. Do not try to maneuver around the deer.
2. Pay attention to “Deer Crossing” signs. Slow down when traveling through areas known to have a high concentration of deer so you have ample time to stop if necessary.
3. If you are traveling after dark, use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead. High beams will be reflected by the eyes of deer on or near roads. If you see one deer, assume that others may be in the area. Deer typically move in family groups during this time of year and cross roads single-file.
4. Don’t tailgate. Remember: The driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer.
5. Always wear a seatbelt, as required by law. Drive at a safe and sensible speed, accounting for weather, available lighting, traffic, curves and other road conditions.
6. If a collision appears inevitable, do not swerve to avoid impact. The deer may counter-maneuver suddenly. Brake appropriately and stay in your lane. Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves to avoid a deer and instead collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure along the road.
7. Report any deer-vehicle collision to a local law enforcement agency immediately.
8. Obey the state’s hands-free device law or refrain from using cellular devices while driving.

Motorists are encouraged to inform the Department of Transportation of dead deer they find along the state highway system. Municipal and county governments are responsible for removal of dead deer from roads they maintain.

For more information about white-tailed deer in New Jersey, visit: www.njfishandwildlife.com/deer.htm

For more information on the Community-Based Deer Management Program, visit: www.njfishandwildlife.com/cbdmp.htm

SOURCE: https://www.nj.gov/dep/newsrel/2018/18_0090.htm

Deer and EHD

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is asking those who are out in the fields and woods of New Jersey at this time of year to be alert for deer that may be affected by Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) and to report any suspected cases to the Division.

Hemorrhagic Disease (HD) is a common viral disease in deer that is transmitted by biting midges belonging to the genus Culiocoides.

Hemorrhagic disease outbreaks in New Jersey typically occur in August through October and end with the first significant frost, which kills the midges. Seven EHD outbreaks have occurred in various parts of New Jersey since 1955, and the first documented case occurred in deer in 2014.

Symptoms of HD in deer may include difficulty standing, drooling, lethargy, respiratory distress, emitting foam from the mouth or nose, and swelling of the face, tongue, and neck. Because the disease causes fever, sick or dead deer are often seen in or near water, after drinking or attempting to cool off. Affected deer may also show reduced activity, loss of appetite and develop ulcerations on their tongue.



Deer exhibiting any of the above mentioned signs in late summer and fall, or dead deer observed in or near water should be reported to any one of the following numbers:

Bureau of Wildlife Management:
Northern Region Deer Biologist - Jodi Powers, 609-259-6965
Southern Region Deer Biologist - Joe Leskie, 609-748-2065

HD is not a public health issue. Neither the EHD nor BT viruses can be transmitted to people, and humans are not at risk by handling infected deer, being bitten by infected midges, or eating infected deer meat -- though the Division of Fish and Wildlife strongly advises against consuming meat from any game animal that appears ill.

EHD virus rarely infects domestic animals, while BT is a known disease of domestic animals such as sheep, cattle, goats, and even domestic dogs. To date, no cases of livestock illness related to BT have been reported. People suspecting HD in domestic animals should have them tested for the virus.


Additional information may be obtained from the State Veterinarian's Office at 609-292-3965.
The New Jersey Department of Agriculture's Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory (AHDL) can assist in diagnosing suspected BT cases by offering testing and necropsy services. The AHDL can be contacted by calling (609) 406-6999 or e-mailing jerseyvetlab@ag.state.nj.us.

More information about the tests offered can be found on the AHDL website: www.jerseyvetlab.nj.gov

More Information

Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in Deer in New Jersey (Office of Fish and Wildlife Health and Forensics)
Hemorrhagic Disease of White-tailed Deer (pdf, Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study)

Dark colors on the map indicate counties where EHD was confirmed by virus isolation. Light colors indicate counties where there were suspected cases that were not confirmed. Blue indicates infections cause by EHD serotype 1 virus and red indicates infections by EHD serotype 2 virus.

Watch Out for Deer During Rutting Season

This is the fall breeding (rutting) season for New Jersey's whitetail deer. During rutting season, deer are most active in the very early morning and around sunset, when visibility conditions can be very difficult. This is when bucks are most actively pursuing does.

Peak rutting season for deer in New Jersey runs from late October, throughout November, and into mid-December in all areas of the state, beginning earliest in northern regions.

Using caution while driving will become even more important when Daylight Saving Time ends November 6, causing commutes to align with periods when deer are most active.

The Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife is reminding motorists to be alert for white-tailed deer, which may unexpectedly dart onto roads and cause accidents. Deer are involved in thousands of collisions annually in New Jersey, with as many as half coming during the fall mating season, or rutting season, which peaks in November.

An adult male deer can weigh 150 pounds or more.

For motorists, low levels of light and sun glare can make it very difficult to see deer that are about to cross the road. Moreover, multiple deer may cross the road at any given moment, usually in a single file.

Motorists are encouraged to inform the Department of Transportation of dead deer they find along the state highway system at nj.gov/transportation/commuter/potholeform.shtm   Note that municipal and county governments are responsible for removal of dead deer from roads they maintain.

1. If you see a deer, slow down and pay attention to possible sudden movement. If the deer doesn’t move, don’t go around it. Wait for the deer to pass and the road is clear.
2. Pay attention to “Deer Crossing” signs. Slow down when traveling through areas known to have a high concentration of deer so you will have ample time to stop if necessary.
3. If you are traveling after dark, use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic. High beams will be reflected by the eyes of deer on or near roads. If you see one deer, be on guard: others may be in the area. Deer typically move in family groups at this time of year and cross roads single-file.
4. Don’t tailgate. Remember: the driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer.
5. Always wear a seatbelt, as required by law. Drive at a safe and sensible speed, considering weather, available lighting, traffic, curves and other road conditions.
6. If a collision appears inevitable, do not swerve to avoid impact. The deer may counter-maneuver suddenly. Brake appropriately, but stay in your lane. Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves to avoid a deer and instead collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure along the road.
7. Report any deer-vehicle collision to a local law enforcement agency immediately.
8. Obey the state’s hands-free device law or, better yet, avoid any distractions by refraining from using cellular devices while driving.

As a result of New Jersey’s proactive deer management policies, the estimated population of deer in New Jersey, derived from a formula based on deer harvested in hunting seasons, is about 101,000, down from 204,000 in 1995.

This does not factor in deer inhabiting areas where hunting is not permitted. The DEP’s Community-Based Deer Management Program is available to help municipalities control deer in areas where sport hunting is not a viable management tool.

To hear a new Discover DEP podcast about New Jersey’s deer population, visit: njdep.podbean.com/e/episode-26-deer-rutting-season-with-principal-biologist-dan-roberts

For more information about white-tailed deer in NJ njfishandwildlife.com/deer.htm

Information on the Community-Based Deer Management Program: njfishandwildlife.com/cbdmp.htm

NJDEP Survey on Deer

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is conducting a survey on NJ residents' opinions on living with white-tailed deer.

The purpose of this survey is to assess the viewpoint of the general public, with an emphasis on NJ residents living in suburban/urban areas. The results of this on-going data collection will aid the Division by suggesting areas of the state where limited (or no) deer management is currently taking place. Such areas will be targeted for educational and outreach programs on deer.

For more information and to take the Living With Deer in New Jersey Survey,
visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/survey_deermgt14.htm on the Division's website.

NJ Deer in Their Rutting Period

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is urging motorists to be alert for white-tailed deer on roads across the state with the arrival of the fall rut, especially during morning and evening commutes when visibility may be poor and deer are more active.

The rut is the mating season of ruminant animals such as deer(sheep, elk, moose etc.). During the rut (or rutting period) bucks often rub their antlers or horns on trees or shrubs, fight with each other, wallow in mud or dust, and herd estrus females together.

The rut in many species is triggered by a shortening of the length of daylight hours each day. The timing of the rut for different species depends on the length of their gestation period (length of pregnancy), usually occurring so the young are born in the spring, shortly after new green growth has appeared (which provides food for the females, allowing them to provide milk for the young), and when the temperatures are warm enough that the young will not die of hypothermia.

Studies indicate the peak mating season for deer in New Jersey runs from late October, throughout November, and into mid-December in all regions of the state, beginning first in northern regions.

Drivers in New Jersey should be extra alert to avoid collisions, as deer movements related to breeding have begun and will pick up in the coming weeks. Triggered by shorter days and cooler weather, deer disperse and move around considerably as they search for mates.

You are encouraged to alert the Department of Transportation about dead deer they find along the state highway system and deer crossing locations. DOT has made it easy and convenient for residents to do so online at .

• If you spot a deer, slow down and pay attention to possible sudden movement. If the deer doesn't move, don't go around it. Wait for the deer to pass and the road is clear.
• If a collision appears inevitable, do not swerve to avoid impact. The deer may counter-maneuver suddenly. Brake appropriately, but stay in your lane. Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves to avoid a deer and instead collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure along the road.
• Pay attention to "Deer Crossing" signs. Slow down when traveling through areas known to have a high concentration of deer so you will have ample time to stop if necessary.
• If you are traveling after dark, use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic. High beams will be reflected by the eyes of deer on or near roads.
• If you see one deer, be on guard: others may be in the area. Deer typically move in family groups at this time of year and cross roads single-file. Female deer are being chased by bucks and during breeding phase are often unaware of traffic.
• Don't tailgate. Remember: the driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer.
• Always wear a seatbelt, as required by law. Drive at a safe and sensible speed, taking into account weather, available lighting, traffic, curves and other road conditions.

Report any deer-vehicle collision to a local law enforcement agency immediately.

More information about white-tailed deer in New Jersey

Source   http://www.nj.gov/dep/newsrel/2013/13_0098.htm

Virus Infecting New Jersey Deer

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Fish and Wildlife Health and Forensics (OFWHF) reports that Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) that affects whitetail deer has spread. The first New Jersey outbreak occurred in 2007, from Morris to Salem counties. Last year, smaller outbreaks occurred in central and northern New Jersey. The virus has been found in Warren County as well as Gloucester and Salem counties, and test results are pending for several others.

NJDEP wildlife officials have issued an alert to hunters to be aware of the virus.

Federal wildlife officials have said there could be more severe outbreaks of the disease this fall because widespread drought and high temperatures caused low water levels, creating more muddy areas, which midges favor. Also, deer herd immunity may be low because the last large outbreak occurred five years ago, and many deer only live for two or three years.

Deer become infected with EHD through the bites of midge flies, and infected deer can show such symptoms as drooling, foaming from the mouth or nose, and difficulty standing. Infected deer also may experience internal hemorrhaging and hemorrhaging around the eyes and mouth.

They typically die within five to 10 days of infection, growing progressively weaker and salivating excessively. They often die near or in a body of water, where they have gone to try and cool off.

The disease cannot be transmitted to people, and humans are not at risk by handling infected deer, being bitten by infected midges, or eating meat from infected deer, according to the state Department of Environmental Protection. But the DEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife “strongly advises against consuming meat from any game animal that appears ill,” the agency said in a statement.

Deer cannot spread the disease to each other. “Outbreaks end with the onset of cold weather, which kills the midges that spread the disease,” said David Chanda, director of the Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts should report sightings of infected deer to the state DEP’s office of fish and wildlife health forensics at 908-236-2118, or the Bureau of Wildlife Management’s northern office at 908-735-7040.

NJ DOT Reports More than 4700 deer killed by cars this year

The New Jersey Department of Transportation says more than 4,700 deer have been killed by vehicles through the first week of November. That's on pace to nearly match last year's total of about 6,000. Mating season makes November the deadliest month for deer-vehicle collisions. A State Farm Insurance study found 18 percent of accidents occur in November. October and December are nearly as deadly. Those accidents cost an average of about $3,200. The state DOT says most deer killed in northern New Jersey end up in landfills. But those killed in Passaic County are used to feed animals at Space Farms Zoo in Sussex County.

via news12.com

NJ Deer Facts

image via wikimedia.org

Estimates are that there are nearly 200,000 whitetail deer in New Jersey. 100 years ago, deer in NJ were "endangered."

This population explosion is causing many problems throughout the state including damaged landscaping to homeowners, major accidents to motorists, and an ecological imbalance.

According to njdeercontrol.com, who offer a deer repellent product and strategies to prevent deer from coming on your property, some of the "favorite" plants and shrubs of deer in New Jersey are:

SHRUBS: Arborvitae, Azalea, Burning Bush, Holly, Hydrangea, Lilac, Mountain Laurel, Red Twigged Dogwood, Rhododendron, Rose of Sharon, Viburnum, Yew.

FLOWERS: Aster, Astilbe, Bee Balm, Cardinal Flower, Coneflower, Daylily, Gayfeather, Geranium, Hosta, Impatiens, Sedum, Sunflowers, Tulips.

Some White Tail Deer facts:

1. A deer’s nose is about 100 times more sensitive than a human's
2. Deer can jump a 9 foot fence
3. They are the largest wild herbivore in NJ
4. Their stomach is able to digest different foods at specific times of the year. This helps it survive the changing availability of food, and why only certain plants and shrubs are eaten at particular times of the year.
5. They actually thrive in today’s environment because they are an "edge species." This means they do not like large homogeneous tracts of land, but land with borders and edge habitats. As the human population has increased and divided land, we have created a more suitable habitat for the whitetail deer.
6. They have no natural predators in New Jersey in high enough numbers to affect their population. Humans - especially motorists - and domestic dogs are the only real "predators."

Deer In Velvet

Male deer with antlers in velvet
http://njwight.tumblr.com/post/7803845759/antlers

Now is the time that you can see male deer in NJ showing new antlers.

Each antler grows from an attachment point on the skull called a pedicle. While an antler is growing, it is covered with highly vascular skin called velvet, which supplies oxygen and nutrients to the growing bone. Growth occurs at the tip, and is initially cartilage, which is mineralized to become bone. Once the antler has achieved its full size, the velvet is lost and the antler's bone dies. This dead bone structure is the mature antler.

When summer ends, you can begin to see "deer rubs" which are the abrasions that male deer make by rubbing its forehead and antlers against the base of a tree. These can be found in any area with high deer populations. Deer rubs are used by hunters to find locations for hunting. The deer are rubbing the velvet off their antler growth. This is especially true during rut season because that area between the forehead and antlers contains a large number of apocrine sweat glands, and leave a scent that communicates a challenge to other male deer while also attracting potential mates. The size of the rub usually varies with the size of the deer.

Deer Management Program Hunts Continue in February

Deer management controlled hunts continue in NJ January and February.

Postcards went out in Essex County that deer-culling efforts would begin again this month and continue until February 24th. The county sees this as a cornerstone of a reforestation initiative at the South Mountain, Eagle Rock and Hilltop reservations. Oak, beech, hickory and maple stands have been damaged or destroyed by the abundance of white-tailed deer in those areas where hunting is not allowed.

In Essex, 19 licensed hunters will be in the reservations on Tuesdays and Thursdays and the reservations will be closed during those times.

The hunts have always been controversial with protests and signage appearing in many neighborhoods.

These hunts began at South Mountain in 2008 and at Eagle Rock and Hilltop last year. The hunters have taken about 750 deer. The goal is to have five deer per square mile in order for the forest to regenerate. In South Mountain, there are about 27 per square mile.

The shooters, who have passed a marksmanship test and will be paid in venison, will fire single shots from assigned perches at least 20 feet of the ground. They will be at least 450 feet from any residences.

In Union County, the hunt is in the Ash Brook Reservation and Golf Course in Scotch Plains and is to prevent destruction of forest vegetation and also to reduce the number of motor vehicle accidents caused by deer.

Eight volunteer marksmen licensed by the state will conduct the hunt, which will continue through February 12 during daylight hours and without hunting on Sundays.

A last-minute approval of an amendment to this year’s deer management plan, allows hunting in Watchung. This is the first year that Warren Blue Ridge Sportsmen’s Club is conducting the hunt, but the process remains the same as in past years.

The hunt will take place on three tracts of public land and six tracts of private property. The public land includes a 19.81 tract of land on the west end of Mountain Boulevard, 9.56 acres on Sequoia Drive and 6.4 acres between Route 22 and Johnston Drive.

The private properties are located on Mountain Boulevard, Bonnie Burn Road, a parcel of land between Route 22 and Bonnie Burn Road, the west side of Bonnie Burn Road, Sequoia Drive, Ellisen Road, High Tor Drive, Old Somerset Road, Dugway and Timberline Way.

Meat butchered from the kill, which is distributed by the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, provided about 23,000 meals to the needy and homeless last year. In Essex, volunteers who participate for a majority of days also receive venison as payment.

ALSO
Community-Based Deer Management http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/cbdmp.htm

Deer and Motorists

It’s breeding season for white-tailed deer right now, and motorists should be on the lookout,” NJDEP Acting Commissioner Mark N. Mauriello said. “Deer can be seen crossing roadways at any time of day, but typically they are most active during the morning and in the evening. Motorists can minimize the risk of accidents with deer by being alert and slowing down.”

The DEP recommends motorists take the following precautions:

Drive with caution when traveling through areas known to have large deer populations, particularly along sections of roadways posted as deer crossings.

Slow down when you see deer on the roadside, and be alert for sudden movement. Remember that deer move in groups, so if you see one deer crossing the road, others might follow.

Use high beams after dark when there is no oncoming traffic. High beams illuminate the eyes of deer on or near a roadway, giving motorists more time to react.

Do not swerve if it appears you are going to hit a deer. Brake firmly, and stay in your lane. Motorists who swerve to avoid deer increase the likelihood of colliding with oncoming traffic or roadside obstacles.

Keep in mind that deer are unpredictable. They may stop in the middle of the road while crossing or turn around and return to the roadside. If a deer remains in the road, do not try to go around it. Stop and wait until the road is clear.