Department of
Administration
Deer Management
2000 Executive Report on Deer Management
Deer Population Survey 2000
Intro | Communication Program | Controlled Archery Hunt | Deer Birth Control
Deer/Vehicle Collisions | Fence Enclosure | Motion of Board of Commissioners
Signs | Strieter Lites | Wildlife Biologist | Conclusion
On March 10, 2000 between 8 PM and 1 AM, AirScan Inc. of Titusville, Florida conducted a Township wide infrared aerial survey for the purpose of establishing a (pre-birth) deer census for the Township of Upper St. Clair. The estimated detection rate in these areas is at or about 90% of the deer actually in Upper St. Clair at the time of the flyover. The results of the infrared survey are as follows:
| Area Surveyed | # of Groups | # of Whitetail Deer |
|---|---|---|
| Township of Upper St. Clair | 71 | 250 |
These numbers exclude repeat sightings, as well as, other objects determined not to be deer based on size, shape, and behavioral attributes.
According to the PA Game Commission, it is difficult to determine a post-birth population without specific buck/doe ratios. However, state averages can allow for assumptions regarding post-birth deer populations. The Pennsylvania average is 1.1 fawns per female. At a 1:1 buck to doe ratio (highly unlikely), and 250 whitetail deer, 137 fawns would be born. This would be the minimum number that would be born in Upper St. Clair.
The highest probable number of fawns would be determined with a 1:12 buck to doe ratio. At a 1:12 buck to doe ratio and a 250 deer population, 251 fawns would be born. This is the natural doubling point for the population. Therefore based upon the March 10, 2000 deer census, the Township is likely to have a population ranging from 387 to 501 deer following spring birthing.
Township of Upper St. Clair · 1820 McLaughlin Run Road · Upper St.Clair, Pennsylvania 15241
Department of Administration · Phone: 412.831.9000 Ext. 219 · Fax: 412.831.9882
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