Show All Answers

1. Do deer live a different life in the urban setting versus their relatives in rural settings?

According to a previous study of 266 collared deer around St. Louis by the Missouri Department of Conservation, deer living in urban settings were found to live a more confined life, with the most common form of death being related to vehicle collisions. There are few predators and/or hunts to control their populations in these settings. Urban deer tend to have smaller home ranges (100-300 acres) than do their rural counterparts. Urban deer are many times more likely to die from vehicle collisions.

2. What is the primary reason for the lack of deer management in urban areas?

Lack of deer management exists because of real or perceived safety concerns and City ordinances that act to limit management. There are often conflicting social attitudes and perceptions about wildlife management in an urban area (i.e., hunting and weapons discharge versus restrictions). Liability and/or political concerns may also be a problem.

3. What is the projected growth rate of Springfield's urban deer herd if we do nothing?

Review of current deer population growth has shown that in as little as 5 years, the total population of deer within the metro area could increase as much as 100% - doubling the current population - if nothing is done to counter their reproductive rates.

4. How did deer populations reach these current levels in our urban/suburban neighborhoods?

In the absence of predation and hunting, vehicles and possibly disease are the only factors that control deer within urban and suburban settings. Also, deer are usually welcomed in most urban settings, at least for a period of time. They soon become unwelcome, but will not be noted as unwelcome until a gross overpopulation begins to affect all involved persons.

5. Can I hunt on any publicly owned land?

No. Hunting is prohibited inside Springfield city limits. The exceptions are occasional urban deer hunts managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. These hunts are authorized by City Council on a case-by-case basis, and are strictly limited to small number of experienced bow hunters chosen by MDC through a lottery system. Information on scheduled hunts will be made available as they are authorized by City Council.