Living in a semi-rural area like Pinehurst offers stunning natural beauty and a peaceful environment, but it also means sharing our space with wildlife—especially deer. While these creatures are a charming sight, their presence can present challenges, from property damage to traffic concerns. Here are some practical tips to help you coexist with deer in a way that’s safe for both you and the wildlife.

1. Secure Your Garden and Landscaping

Deer are notorious for browsing on shrubs, flowers, and trees. To protect your garden:

• Choose Deer-Resistant Plants: Some plants are naturally less appealing to deer, such as lavender, daffodils, and marigolds. Check out this presentation regarding deer-resistant plants or see our "Gardening in Deer Country" pamphlet.
• Fencing: Installing a sturdy fence can keep deer from entering your garden. Consider using mesh or wire fences for a more natural look. The Village is currently reviewing its fencing requirements to address concerns regarding fencing intended to protect foliage from wildlife. 
• Repellents: Use deer repellents—either commercial or homemade—around vulnerable plants. These can often deter deer from feeding on your landscape.

2. Drive Cautiously at Night

Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, which can coincide with high traffic times. To avoid collisions:

• Slow Down: When driving in deer country, especially during evening and early morning hours, reduce your speed.
• Use Your High Beams: When there’s no oncoming traffic, use your high beams to increase visibility and spot deer early.
• Stay Alert: Deer often travel in groups. If you see one, there’s likely more nearby.

3. Remove Food Sources

Deer are opportunistic feeders and will be attracted to food sources around your home:

• Don’t Feed Deer: While it might seem harmless, feeding deer can lead to overcrowding, spread of disease, and behavior changes.
• Secure Trash and Compost: Make sure to store garbage in secure bins that deer cannot access. Compost piles should also be managed to avoid attracting deer.
• Protect Bird Feeders: If you have bird feeders, consider bringing them in at night or using feeders designed to discourage deer.

4. Keep Your Pets Safe

Deer can sometimes feel threatened and may react aggressively, especially during the mating season. Here’s how to keep your pets safe:

• Supervise Pets Outdoors: Always keep pets on a leash or within a fenced yard to prevent them from encountering deer.
• Protect Small Animals: If you have small pets or livestock, make sure they’re in secure enclosures that deer can’t enter.

5. Understand Seasonal Behavior

Deer behavior varies throughout the year, and being aware of the different seasons can help you anticipate deer activity:

• Breeding Season (Fall): During mating season, bucks are more active and may be more aggressive. This is a time when you might notice deer in unusual places.
• Winter: Food becomes scarcer in winter, which may drive deer to forage closer to homes. This is when property damage and deer-vehicle accidents are more common.

6. Reporting and Managing Deer Overpopulation

If you notice a significant deer overpopulation or deer causing safety concerns, it’s important to report it to local authorities. The District Six Wildlife Biologist of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission can be reached at Office: 910.571.9747 or Home Page | NC Wildlife. Additionally, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission provides the Community Deer Management Assistance Program (CDMAP) to help communities manage their deer populations

CDMAP is a voluntary program designed to reduce or manage deer populations in residential or highly-developed areas. The goal of the program is to minimize human-deer conflicts while promoting herd health. This initiative will allow licensed hunters to harvest deer on enrolled properties with landowner permission, offering a controlled and sustainable approach to managing deer numbers in our neighborhood. Per Village ordinance, firearms are not allowed, and all harvesting must be done by bow.  For more information visit CDMAP Program Overview. 

Living in deer country can be a rewarding experience if you’re prepared. By following these tips, you can help reduce the challenges while appreciating the beauty of nature around you. Stay safe, respect wildlife, and enjoy the serenity that comes with living in this unique environment.