Letter: Deer cull

Sir: DJB Denny (letter, 9 October) suggests that culling deer by shooting is a non-selective method of managing deer. Nothing can be further from the truth.

Professional and recreational deer managers work hard to ensure that deer numbers are kept in balance with their habitat and prevent serious damage to trees, crops and gardens. This involves assessing the number of deer in an area, calculating the carrying capacity of the area and then deciding on a balanced cull across the age classes and sexes. It is accepted that culling will normally be needed and, where necessary, deer should be culled by shooting - the most effective, legal and humane method.

PETER WATSON

Deer Officer

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation

Rossett, Clwyd