PUBLIC NOTICE: Second Deer Pellet Group Inventory is being conducted in and around the Town of Yarmouth

For the second straight spring, a wildlife management consultant company will conduct a Pellet Group Inventory (PGI) to evaluate the presence and abundance of deer in, and near, the Town of Yarmouth. This survey is necessary and will provide the town and Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (NSDNRR) with a renewed reference point of deer densities in the town in 2025. The survey involves taking a deer pellet (droppings) inventory that will allow a comparative indicator of deer population density trend over a period time (typically two-three years). This PGI will also allow a measure of effectiveness of any population management actions which the town may decide to take in consultation with NSDNRR wildlife management staff. The team members of the consultant company will conduct the survey in, and near the town, in the same locations as last year's count. Work will be underway later this week and be carried out in two or three stints.

Additional information regarding this PGI survey and approval of a population management plan:

The Town of Yarmouth is more than aware of the overabundance of deer, and that deer can be found literally anywhere in town. That is why the Deer Management Working Group was created. The group has been working in partnership with NSDRR and has looked closely at ALL population management options. In November 2024, Town Council approved a motion to submit a population management plan to NSDRR, including a controlled hunt. That plan is being finalized now. To move forward and have the plan approved, this PGI must be undertaken. It is a requirement that ANY interaction with deer must be sanctioned by the NSDRR, and collecting this data is part of the process that needs to be followed. Without surprise, last year's baseline survey showed a high population density of deer within town. It is the hope of the Deer Management Group that this second PGI, combined with another roadside count, will provide the additional data needed to move forward with a management plan.

You can find the summary of last spring's PGI in the "Key Documents" section to the right.