Despite abnormally cold temperatures, Maryland deer hunters took 40,735 deer during the two-week firearm season according to figures released by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).  Hunters reported 15,211 antlered deer (370 sika) and 25,524 antlerless deer (465 sika).

Overall, harvest numbers declined slightly (8%) over last year’s official harvest of 44,266 deer.  The drop in harvest is attributed to anticipated declines in far Western Maryland where the antlerless bag limit was reduced, and in the north central counties of Washington, Frederick, and Carroll, which traditionally have carried high deer numbers.  Minor differences in harvest estimates may also be attributed to the change in check-in systems from check stations to telephone and Internet check-in.  Harvest numbers will remain preliminary until the data can be thoroughly analyzed.

Based on the preliminary numbers the deer population appears to have stabilized or decreased in rural areas of the state.  “We’ve been encouraging hunters to take antlerless deer in an effort to balance the deer population with its environment and human neighbors; we are beginning to see the positive results of that strategy” said DNR Deer Project Leader Doug Hotton.

Junior hunters had excellent weather for their one-day deer hunt and harvested a record 3,406 deer.  The Junior Hunt Days, which include a deer, turkey, and waterfowl hunt day, continue to grow in popularity.  This year successful junior deer hunters could receive a DNR certificate and their picture posted on the DNR website.

This hunting season marks the first year that DNR has used a telephone and Internet big game reporting system.  Maryland hunters have quickly learned how to use the new system and are complying with its requirements.  The reported deer harvest with the new system is consistent with trends at check stations in recent years and is what would be expected based on recent deer population trends.

“The new check-in system is an unqualified success. Hunters have quickly adopted the new procedures and are demonstrating their honesty and dedication to the sport by reporting their harvest with the new system” said Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Paul A. Peditto.

Peditto added,”Telephone and Internet check-in is more convenient for most hunters, allows faster retrieval of accurate harvest data, and can be operated at a reduced cost. However, we realize some hunters miss the fellowship associated with the former check-station model; look for new opportunities to restore the camaraderie associated with our former outdoor retail partners in the future.”