Condition of New Jersey's Deer

New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife

Assessing The Condition of New Jersey's Deer Herd

Every year, data on age, sex, antler beam diameter, antler points and dressed weight are collected from a representative sample of deer harvested in the various hunting seasons. This information is used to assess the health of the deer herd and the quality of the habitat throughout the state. The majority of this information is collected at deer check stations on the opening days of the six-day firearm and the permit shotgun seasons, though in recent years there is an expanded emphasis on early muzzleloader days as well.

Condition parameters are used to group deer and deer range into the following four categories: below standard, standard, above standard and substantially above standard. In general, the physical condition of New Jersey’s deer is considered to be above standard. Below standard range can be found in Deer Management Zones 21, 22, 23, 24, 32, 33, 34, 39, 42, 45, 46, 52, 53, 56, 57, 58, 61 and 66. Substantially above standard deer range can be found in Zones 2, 7, 10, 11, 14, 15, 27, 28, 29, 35, 49, 50, 54, 59, 60 and 63. In general, deer from the fertile agricultural regions are at the top of the condition scale, whereas deer from zones located in the outer coastal plain (the Pinelands) are generally in poorer condition. Outer coastal plain zones are characterized by sandy, acidic soils that support vegetation of low nutritional value. Quality food, adequate cover, water and proper management are essential for a healthy deer population.

Hunters checking in deer on days division biologists are on duty have observed the measuring of antler diameter and recording the number of points 1" or greater in length. The average antler beam diameter and the number of points a yearling male produces are good indicators of the general quality of the deer range and deer condition.

Age, genetics and nutrition contribute to antler development. Reproductive rates (the number of viable embryos per doe) vary with the age and condition of the deer. Reproductive rates of female deer for all age classes can be predicted by using the average yearling antler beam diameter.

The cooperation of hunters who wait while biologists weigh, take antler measurements and age their deer at check stations is greatly appreciated by the Division. Collection of this data is essential to our ability to successfully manage New Jersey’s thriving deer herd and keep it in balance with the changing landscape of our state.