Priority invasive animals - feral deer

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Feral deer have established wild populations throughout Queensland. This is a result of deliberate release, through deer escaping captivity or natural spread from previously established populations. Any deer not kept in a deer-proof enclosure is considered to be feral. The five different species of deer fall into three different categories under the Biosecurity Plan.

Identifying feral deer

Prevention species

Prevention species are not currently found on the Sunshine Coast. If these species became established, they could result in significant impacts. It is important for land managers to prevent the entry and establishment of these species.

Feral chital deer (Axis axis)
Hog deer (Axis porcinus)
Sambar deer (Rusa unicolor, syn. Cervus unicolor)

Eradication species

Eradication species are present in low numbers and found in only a few locations on the Sunshine Coast. However, if they spread further, they will cause significant impacts. Elimination of these species is achievable for land managers.

Feral fallow deer (Dama dama)

Containment species

Containment species are found in parts of the Sunshine Coast but not everywhere. Where they do occur, they cause notable impacts. Land managers should reduce the impact of these species and stop their spread across the landscape.

Feral red deer (Cervus elaphus)
Feral rusa deer (Rusa timorensis syn. Cervus timorensis)

Reporting feral deer

Report all sightings of feral deer to Council.

Report sightings of hog deer to Biosecurity Queensland within 24 hours.

Where they live

Feral deer are known to occur in all areas (urban, peri-urban and rural) of the Mary River and Stanley River catchments. Low incidences of deer have been confirmed in the Mooloolah River, Maroochy River and Pumicestone Passage catchments.

They inhabit semi-open forest, scrubland and woodland areas. They graze on pastures and open grassy areas close to cover. Rusa deer have been recorded in front yards and urban streets.

Problems caused by feral deer

Feral deer are a threat to road users and have the potential to cause serious traffic accidents due to their size and preference for night time movement.

They also compete with native wildlife for resources, spread weeds and cause degradation of natural habitat areas.

Feral deer can cause damage to pastures and crops and compete with livestock for food. They also pose a threat to livestock through the spread of diseases.

Protecting against feral deer

Under the Biosecurity Act all Queenslanders have a general biosecurity obligation (GBO). This GBO requires everyone to manage biosecurity risks under their control.

Reasonable and practical measures to achieve each management objective are detailed in our plan. Council provides services to assist the community and land managers to achieve this (and to meet their GBO).

To learn about Council’s programs or to get help to protect your place, visit the managing invasive animals webpage.