Open-range Deer Management

Date published: 21 November, 2023

For recent changes to this guidance, please see the bottom of the page.

Note: In January 2024, the Deer Management Plan inserted on the published date of this page has been replaced with an updated version

The aim of this item is to benefit upland and moorland habitat, and their associated species by reducing grazing and / or trampling pressure from deer through additional culling over and above maintenance culls.

Reducing the deer population on designated sites will help ensure that the upland and moorland habitats are maintained or brought into favourable condition and continue to support a wide range of birds and other wildlife.

Where the deer population and / or the designated site extends across more than one ownership it may be a requirement to collaborate with neighbours.

Rough grazing land, which forms part of a deer range and which includes land designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest or European site and is in, or at risk of falling into, unfavourable condition due to grazing pressure from deer is eligible.

You must combine this option with the Moorland Management option.

You must prepare and submit to NatureScot for approval a deer management plan for the additional culling. Support will only be provided to reduce deer densities to levels agreed with NatureScot as appropriate for the site. The agreed cull target may be reviewed on an annual basis.

  • you must reduce deer numbers by the agreed cull target (as detailed in your plan)
  • you must keep all your venison receipts covering the period you have been undertaking this work and show them at inspection
  • you must maintain a diary

You must submit copies of your annual cull returns covering the years you have been undertaking this work along with your claim

Payment will depend on the size of the reduction cull as follows:

Payment rate per hectare Size of reduction cull
£0.80 At least two deer per 100 hectares
£1.20 At least three deer per 100 hectares
£1.60 At least four deer per 100 hectares
£2.00 At least five deer per 100 hectares

The basis of your claim will be your venison receipts. You must claim for the payment rate which reflects the numbers of deer for which you have venison receipts.

The inspectors will check:

  • the location and extent of the work
  • you have reduced deer numbers by the agreed cull target (as detailed in your plan)
  • you must submit copies of your annual cull returns covering the years you have been undertaking this work along with your claim
  • your venison receipts covering the period you have been undertaking this work and show them at inspection
  • you have maintained a diary

Section Change
Application Requirements Updated Deer Management Plan.

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Management options and capital items

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