Question: “We are considering high fencing our 1,100 acre South Texas ranch in Brooks County, Texas, for increased whitetail deer management. We want to make sure we not only improve the habitat, but maintain or improve the quality of the deer on the property. Should we be concerned about inbreeding and a decline of deer quality on a relatively small place? Thanks for your opinion.”
Deer Management: I would not be concerned about the inbreeding of deer on a high fenced property of that size. You should “trap” more than enough deer when the fence is constructed so inbreeding or antler decline from inbreeding will will never be a problem. The high fence will allow you more management opportunity and flexibility, so that makes good sense if you are committed to deer management. Continue reading High Fencing for Deer Management: Inbreeding Problems?