Michigan wildlife officials say the size of the state’s deer herd is similar to last year, as the first hunters of the season head to the woods this weekend.
A “far milder than normal” winter in the Upper Peninsula may mean hunters there may have more deer in their sights. Last year, the UP recorded a 6% drop in the deer harvest compared to 2019.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says the herd in the Lower Peninsula should be on par with last year’s numbers.
Wildlife officials continue to look for deer with signs of chronic wasting disease in the southern part of the Lower Peninsula and Bovine tuberculosis in the northern Lower Peninsula.
The DNR encourages hunters to visit check stations and submit their deer for testing.
Deer season is getting underway this weekend with a specially designated hunt for youth and for hunters with disabilities.
The number of deer hunters in Michigan’s woodlands will continue to grow this fall culminating with the start of firearm deer season in November.
