What's Wrong with Hunting?
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Many deer wounded by hunters die a slow and painful death, such as this deer found by Second Chance Wildlife Center with a broken arrow in her jaw.
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Photo: Patricia Ceppos |
Although many people believe that lethal methods are the only way to reduce the number of deer, hunting is actually a very poor way to prevent overpopulation. When large numbers of deer are removed from a herd, competition for food, water, and space is reduced. With plenty of food to go around, more does will get pregnant, and often produce twins and triplets. Many hunters also selectively target bucks, to produce a "trophy", which leaves more female deer to reproduce. Humane alternatives such as deer contraceptives have been used successfully in many areas. Hunting is not only cruel, but actually increases deer populations. |
