Tega Cay Implements Sterilization and Culling to Manage Growing Deer Population

Tega Cay Moves to Control Deer Population with Sterilization and Culling

Tega Cay, a city of approximately 13,000 residents located along Lake Wylie in northern York County, has completed the sterilization of 200 deer as part of a comprehensive strategy to manage its burgeoning deer population. This initiative comes in response to ongoing concerns that have plagued the community for over a decade.

High Costs for a Complex Solution

The sterilization process incurred a cost of over $268,000, averaging more than $1,300 per deer. City officials recognized that merely sterilizing a segment of the deer population may not suffice to control the estimated 800 to 1,200 deer roaming the area. Deer-related concerns have prompted local authorities to consider multiple approaches to manage the population effectively.

Initial Culling Efforts Fall Short

Earlier this year, Tega Cay sought federal permission to cull up to 160 deer. However, the initial efforts resulted in fewer than 40 deer being taken down, according to Mayor Chris Gray. In response to these modest results, the city contracted with a nonprofit organization—White Buffalo—to conduct the sterilization of the female deer, which took place from October 21 to last week.

A Hybrid Approach to Population Control

The city council has expressed willingness to consider additional sterilization efforts in the future, contingent on future budget approvals. This combination of culling and sterilization aims to rehabilitate the deer population sustainably. Mayor Gray underscored the need for both strategies, stating that they are essential for achieving a healthier deer herd.

Community Concerns Drive Action

Residents have voiced growing frustration over deer-related issues, such as traffic accidents, damage to plants, and the presence of deer waste. A recent city survey revealed alarming statistics—over 100 residents reported experiencing traffic collisions involving deer within the last three years. This prompted city leaders and wildlife advocates to seek humane alternatives to manage the deer population.

Details of the Sterilization Process

The sterilization procedures took place at night. The female deer were initially tranquilized before being transported to a staging area, where veterinarians performed spaying surgeries. Following their treatment, the sterilized deer were returned to the locations from which they were captured. This careful method aims to minimize stress for the animals and contribute to their well-being.

Tracking and Future Plans

To monitor the impacts of the sterilization efforts, tagged animals have been equipped with reflective ribbons, and 20 deer received radio collars to track their long-term survival rates. This initiative reflects the city’s commitment to evaluate the effectiveness of their management tactics.

Moving Forward with Culling Permissions

In addition to the sterilization initiative, Tega Cay has obtained approval from the S.C. Department of Natural Resources to undertake the culling of another 80 deer during the winter months. The meat from these culled animals will be donated to the Catawba Indian Nation, aligning with sustainable and responsible wildlife management practices.

Conclusion

Tega Cay’s ongoing efforts to tackle its deer population reflect a balance between community needs and animal welfare. As residents become increasingly aware of the problem, city officials are prepared to act, utilizing a mix of sterilization and culling to manage the situation while keeping public safety and ecological balance in mind.