Indigenous-led Hunting Emerges as Key Solution for Deer Overabundance in B.C.

A recent study conducted by the University of British Columbia (UBC) has identified Indigenous-led hunting as the most effective method for managing the overabundance of black-tailed deer on the Southern Gulf Islands in British Columbia. The research, published in the journal People and Nature, highlights the ecological and cultural benefits of this approach, which integrates both Indigenous and Western knowledge systems.

Over the past two decades, populations of black-tailed deer in this region have surged to levels estimated to be up to ten times higher than a century ago. The dramatic increase is attributed to a combination of human-altered landscapes, restrictions on hunting, and a decline in natural predators. According to the study’s lead researcher, Dr. Tara Martin, these conditions have led to severe ecological degradation, affecting forest regeneration and biodiversity, and disrupting cultural ties to the land.

“As beautiful and natural as the islands may appear, they are significantly degraded,” Dr. Martin stated. “The change has been gradual, making it difficult for many to recognize the extent of the problem.”

The consequences of unchecked deer populations are profound. The Garry Oak meadow, one of British Columbia’s most endangered ecosystems, faces the risk of irreversible collapse due to overgrazing. Similar issues are emerging in regions around the world, including Haida Gwaii, Ontario, Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia.

Inclusive Strategies for Effective Deer Management

Developing management strategies that not only address deer overpopulation but also support the well-being of communities is complex. The study emphasizes the need for decision-making frameworks that balance ecological and cultural considerations. Lead author and doctoral student Sofie McComb remarked, “This study provides a roadmap to tackle complicated problems where multiple values and goals often lead to indecision.”

The research team collaborated with Coast Salish Nations and local land stewards to evaluate various deer management strategies. These included Indigenous-led hunting, enhancing predator populations, hiring deer reduction specialists, utilizing birth control, and increasing licensed hunting. Among these, Indigenous-led hunting emerged as the only strategy with a high likelihood of achieving both ecological and cultural benefits.

The findings suggest that Indigenous-led hunting could enhance human and ecological well-being by nearly 60% compared to current practices. In contrast, strategies such as increased licensed hunting, while cost-effective, were projected to yield long-term benefits of less than 30%.

The Cost of Inaction

Experts warn that maintaining the status quo will not remedy ecosystem dysfunctions and will contribute to ongoing decision-making paralysis, fueled by concerns over potential controversy. “Delaying action is the most detrimental choice,” stated McComb. “If we do not act soon, the ecosystems may become irrecoverable.”

The research proposes an inclusive framework for communities grappling with similar challenges posed by hyperabundant herbivores. By merging various knowledge systems and considering both feasibility and costs alongside ecological and cultural benefits, decision-makers can pursue strategies that promote recovery in a socially grounded manner.

Dr. Martin concluded, “Solutions to complex environmental issues can benefit both people and ecosystems. This work illustrates that restoring cultural sovereignty and ecological health can be achieved simultaneously.”

For further details, refer to the study by Sofie McComb et al., titled “Decision analysis rooted in Indigenous and Western scientific knowledge identifies cost-effective strategies for managing hyperabundant deer to restore keystone places,” published in People and Nature in November 2025.