The discussion surrounding the management of mule deer on Catalina Island has recently become a hot topic of concern for residents and visitors alike. The Catalina Island Conservancy’s decision to eliminate 100% of the deer on the island has sparked debates and raised questions about conservation practices on the island. It is important to consider all approaches to ensure the long-term well-being of both the mule deer and the island's unique ecosystem.

The current statements made by the Catalina Island Conservancy claiming that hunting is no longer a viable method to keep the numbers of the deer down is simply not true. Five hundred deer can easily co-exist with the plants.

The issue of determining the accurate number of mule deer on Catalina Island remains a topic of dispute. Currently, there has been no comprehensive scientific study conducted to provide a clear understanding of the deer population on the island. As such, the exact figures regarding the mule deer population on Catalina Island are yet to be definitively established.

The management of mule deer on Catalina Island has sparked growing concern among residents and visitors.

The prospect of thousands of bullets descending from the skies above Catalina Island for the sole purpose of eradicating an entire species is disturbing. The actions are based on inconclusive science, further compounded by the absence of meaningful public engagement in the decision-making process and the refusal to find a better way.

Photo: Nick Morrow

Repeated efforts by the Catalina Island Conservancy to secure permission to eradicate all of the deer on Catalina Island have been unsuccessful with explicit rejections from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife scientists. Their rationale points to the absence of sufficient scientific evidence connecting the issues affecting the island's flora and fauna to the deer population, as well as the lack of honest public involvement in the decision-making procedure.

The Catalina Island Conservancy should strive for a harmonious coexistence between deer and native species. When considering the issue of managing the deer population on Catalina Island, exploring alternative approaches beyond complete eradication through inhumane measures is crucial.

By thoroughly exploring alternative methods like deer fencing and managing the size of the herd, the Catalina Island Conservancy can work towards achieving a balanced coexistence between the deer population and native species, without resorting to extreme measures.

This approach can foster a more ecologically sound environment by maintaining biodiversity while addressing concerns related to deer overpopulation.