Vaccine could help deer population

Phyllis Mee Port Townsend
Posted 10/30/18

We are aware of the rapid increase of the deer population in our town. Sadly, it is to their detriment. Many appear to be underfed, unhealthy looking, and it is sad to see them and their young …

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Vaccine could help deer population

Posted

We are aware of the rapid increase of the deer population in our town. Sadly, it is to their detriment. Many appear to be underfed, unhealthy looking, and it is sad to see them and their young scavenging for nourishment.

I am totally against using lethal methods for deer control and have read some encouraging news put out by the Humane Society of the United States. There is a vaccine available which has been approved by the HSUS and the EPA. It is Zonastat-D, an immunocontraceptive. 

Specifically designed for deer, it blocks the fertilization of the doe’s egg and reduces fawning by 85 to 90 percent. It can be applied through a dart and can last up to three years.

For further information, search “A Humane Nation, Kitty Block’s Blog, The Humane Society of the United States, EPA gives thumbs up on vaccine to manage deer.”

I have emailed this information to our city council. I am certain that most of our residents, myself included, would gladly contribute to such a cause if our city leaders are willing to get involved and make it happen.