Biology And Management Of White-tailed Deer In Alabama

potential is documented at the George Reserve in southern Michigan.
This area is a 1,200-acre tract enclosed by an eleven-foot deer-proof
fence. In 1928, six deer (2 bucks and 4 does) were released inside the
area. Six years later, a drive count yielded a minimum population of
160 deer (Hickie 1937). The growth of the George Reserve herd reflects
a mathematical model known as the logistical equation (Caughley 1977).
This model is characterized by an S-shaped curve reflecting how
In this hypothetical population growth model, during the early stages
of population growth, deer numbers are low and food is abundant.
Reproductive output is high and physical condition of the herd is
excellent—consequently the population grows rapidly. As the
population reaches carrying capacity (CC), reproductive output is
slowed and births equal deaths in the population. At this point,
physical condition of the herd is poor and chronic disease is prevalent.
Population levels maintained between 50 to 60 percent of CC are at the
point of maximum sustained yield. At this point, the maximum number
of fawns are born (and survive), deer are in excellent physical
condition, and annual harvest of deer is maximized.
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