Catalina Island’s wildlife management organization has proposed a plan to cull around 2,000 of the local mule deer, which has led to significant backlash from animal advocates.
The Catalina Island Conservancy indicates that this culling could unfold over several years. They’ve sought state approval to manage the deer population on the 75-square-mile island situated off Southern California’s coast.
The organization contends that the mule deer, introduced nearly a century ago, are an invasive species causing harm by consuming vegetation. This behavior is detrimental, as it suffocates native plant life and elevates the fire risk by allowing the spread of flammable grasses, posing a threat to the island’s delicate ecosystem.
Proponents of the plan argue that such drastic actions are essential for revitalizing the habitat and reducing wildfire dangers.
On the flip side, critics argue that the move to employ trained professionals to hunt deer in a controlled manner is not only unethical but also unwarranted.
A petition opposing the culling has garnered over 22,000 signatures, with supporters claiming that “deer are integral to the island’s cultural and scenic identity” and stating that “there’s no scientific basis for this slaughter.”
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn has been vocal against the plan.
In a letter, she urged the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to reject the permit application, emphasizing that it entails using professional hunters to systematically eliminate deer over the next five years, which she describes as a “callous and inhumane tactic that disregards the sentiments of many Catalina residents and visitors.”
The culling plan involves various methods, including shooting from the ground or vehicles, netting by aerial and ground teams, thermal imaging, surgical sterilization, baiting, and operations conducted both day and night, according to the conservation group.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife will review the permit applications, although a timeline for a decision is currently uncertain.
