How to Handle a Deer in Your Backyard
Posted by Shelby Carlson on 31st Oct 2023
Discovering a deer in your enclosed backyard can be an unexpected and occasionally challenging circumstance. While deer are undeniably beautiful creatures, with their graceful appearance and generally peaceful nature, their occasional presence in your garden can inadvertently lead to damage. Their appetite for plants and shrubs, coupled with their tendency to nibble on flowers and vegetables, can pose a challenge to gardeners. Thus, it becomes essential to strike a balance between appreciating the beauty of these creatures and finding ways to protect your garden from potential harm. DeerBusters is here to guide you through the necessary steps to safely remove a deer from your fenced-in backyard.
Step 1: Identify the Presence of a Deer
Before proceeding with any removal methods, you need to ensure there is indeed a deer in your backyard. Look for signs such as hoof prints, nibbled plants, or droppings. Deer are typically most active at dawn and dusk, so these signs may be more visible during these times. Additionally, you may be able to hear them rustling through your plants or see them with binoculars.
Step 2: Avoid Direct Interaction
It's crucial to remember that deer are wild animals and can become aggressive if cornered or scared. Always maintain a safe distance and avoid trying to physically move the deer yourself. This can be dangerous for both you and the deer. Instead, focus on scaring the deer away from your backyard.
Step 3: Make Loud Noises
One of the most effective ways to scare a deer is by making loud noises. This can include clapping your hands, banging pots and pans together, or using an air horn. The sudden loud sounds will startle the deer and hopefully encourage it to flee from your backyard.
Step 4: Open a Path for Escape
If your backyard is entirely fenced in, the deer may be unable to find its way out. Identify any gates or openings you can safely unlock to provide an escape route for the deer. If your backyard is completely enclosed, consider using a trail of treats to lure the deer towards the open gate. Be sure to move away from the gate once it's open, allowing the deer to exit without feeling threatened.
Step 5: Use Scare Tactics
Employing scare tactics such as motion-activated sprinklers or lights can startle the deer and motivate it to escape via the open path. Remember, the goal is not to harm the deer but to encourage it to leave your backyard. Make sure to turn off any scare tactics once the deer has exited to avoid scaring it back into your backyard.
Step 6: Call Professionals if Necessary
If all else fails, contact a professional wildlife removal service. These experts have the necessary equipment and knowledge to handle the situation safely and humanely. They can also help assess your backyard for any potential entry points and provide advice on how to prevent future deer encounters.
Step 7: Prevent Future Incidents
After successfully removing the deer from your backyard, take measures to prevent future incidents. This can include maintaining your fences, planting deer-resistant plants, and keeping your yard clean of food scraps that may attract deer. Regularly checking for signs of deer activity can also help detect any potential issues early on.
Having a deer in your fenced backyard can be a tricky situation, but by following these steps, you can ensure a safe and effective removal process. Always remember, the safety of both you and the deer should be the top priority. So, keep these tips in mind and be prepared in case you encounter a deer on your property.