Hog Deer research to secure more hunting opportunities

GMA Chief Executive Officer Greg Hyams said the $200,000 research investment will assist the GMA to assess the abundance and distribution of Hog Deer.

"Hog Deer are one of the state's most popular and highly valued game species," Mr Hyams said.

"They are present in relatively low numbers, have a limited geographic range in Victoria and could be put at risk from unsustainable management practices."

"The new research will assess the abundance and distribution of Hog Deer using traditional and some modern population monitoring techniques like drones and thermal imaging."

"This research will be conducted periodically to monitor any change in distribution and abundance and will help to identify risks, threats and constraints on Victoria's Hog Deer populations."

"It's vital that we continue working hard to ensure that people who want to hunt can do so in a safe, responsible and a sustainable way."

Research will focus on areas where public hunting access is permitted (six State Game Reserves) and where balloted hunting occurs (Blond Bay, Snake Island and Boole Poole).

Some areas where large populations of Hog Deer are present but not available for hunting such as Wilsons Promontory National Park, will also be targeted.

The information gathered will build on existing data collected through the Game Management Authority's checking stations which collect information on harvested Hog Deer health and distribution.

The hunting of this highly valued species is strictly regulated in Victoria, with licensed hunters permitted to harvest only one male (stag) and one female (hind) during the one-month hunting season in April each year.

This research to help secure hunting opportunities is funded through the 2018-19 Victorian State Budget and is in addition to the Victorian Government's $5.3 million investment in the Sustainable Hunting Action Plan.