Early Red Deer Hunting Allowed to Reduce Damage

To limit the damage caused by red deer, the State Forest Service (VMD) has decided to allow hunting earlier than the official season in specific regions. Normally, the hunting season for red deer hinds and calves starts on July 15, and for bulls under two years old on August 15. This year, hunting from July 8 is permitted only in those territorial units where a decision has been made to reduce the red deer population.

The VMD urges hunters from July 8 to 15 to follow a selective approach and hunt hinds without calves. Calves can be hunted using either a calf permit or an adult bull or hind permit. Bulls under two years old (so-called "spikers" with first antlers) can be hunted with either a bull or hind permit.

According to the VMD, approximately 61,000 red deer live in Latvia. The population decline observed in recent hunting seasons has stopped. Last season, 30,384 red deer were hunted, accounting for 86% of the allowed quota.