Deer Survey Herd Analysis
Property Name: Jake Rider – Centreville
Acreage Surveyed: 710 acres
Location: 38.9727089, -76.0437971
Date of Survey: [Survey Date]
Executive Summary
This comprehensive aerial thermal survey was conducted over 710 acres to assess the deer population, distribution patterns, and herd health. Using advanced thermal imaging technology, we identified and cataloged individual deer, providing detailed insights into buck-to-doe ratios, habitat utilization, and management recommendations.
The survey revealed a healthy, balanced herd with opportunities for strategic management to optimize population dynamics and habitat carrying capacity.
Pin Color Guide (Google Earth / OnX / HuntStand)
See the Read-me file for instructions on importing pins into Google Earth, OnX, and HuntStand.
Population Summary
| Category | Count |
|---|---|
| Total Deer Population | 163 |
| Bucks (Total) | 28 |
| • Mature Bucks | 15 |
| • Management Bucks | 13 |
| Does | 135 |
| Undetermined | 1 |
Margin of Error: 5–7% (increased slightly due to deer movement near the end of the flight during evening hours)
Buck-to-Doe Ratio
Current Ratio
1:4.8
(28 bucks to 135 does)
Previous Ratio
Not available (first survey)
A ratio of roughly 1:5 indicates a balanced and healthy herd structure for this region and habitat type. This ratio suggests adequate buck presence for breeding while maintaining a sustainable doe population. The current ratio falls within the optimal range for Maryland's Eastern Shore, where ratios between 1:4 and 1:6 are considered ideal for maintaining herd health and genetic diversity. With 28 bucks distributed across 710 acres, competition during the rut should be sufficient to ensure breeding success without excessive stress on individual animals. Future surveys will help track whether this ratio remains stable or shifts in response to management actions and natural population dynamics.
Observations
1) Buck Distribution Patterns
- Northeast Sector: Stream corridor, water access, thick cover – highest concentration of mature bucks
- Southern Sector: Several younger management-class bucks, not closely associated with water features
- Central portion: Minimal buck activity, likely serving as travel corridor/transitional habitat
2) Doe Activity
Even distribution across the property, with higher concentrations along feeding areas and mixed-edge habitat. Does showed preference for areas with good visibility and proximity to cover.
3) Other Wildlife Observed
- Squirrels present throughout the property
- Multiple fox sightings in open field areas
- Turkey vultures abundant, indicating healthy ecosystem
- No coyotes detected during this survey
4) Trophy Potential
Based on current observations, no bucks are projected to score above 130–140 inches under Boone and Crockett scoring. For trophy-focused management, restraint in harvest combined with habitat and nutrition improvements over multiple seasons will be necessary to develop higher-scoring animals.
Example Detection Imagery
Thermal Image
Buck in Bedding
Thermal Detection View
RGB Image
Same Buck Location
Corresponding Visual Image
Captured from ~300 feet AGL with high clarity while minimizing disturbance.
Habitat and Carrying Capacity
Current Density
1 deer per 4.3 acres
Current conditions appear capable of supporting the population at this density, though close monitoring of browse pressure and habitat quality is recommended. The property shows good diversity of cover types and food sources. If browse lines become evident or preferred plant species show signs of over-utilization, a modest reduction in doe numbers may be warranted. At present, the habitat appears healthy with no obvious signs of overpopulation stress. Maintaining this balance through strategic harvest and habitat management will ensure long-term sustainability and herd health.
Recommendations
1) Doe Management
Consider harvesting 8–10% of the doe population (approximately 11–14 does) annually to maintain the current ratio and prevent overpopulation. Focus harvest on areas showing the highest doe concentrations to balance distribution across the property.
2) Buck Management Strategy
Protect mature bucks (1.5+ years) to allow for age-class development. Selectively harvest management-class bucks with inferior genetics or weak rack development. This approach will improve overall buck quality over time while maintaining adequate breeding stock.
3) Habitat Enhancements
Maintain and enhance edge habitat, water sources, and bedding areas, particularly in the northeast sector where mature buck activity is concentrated. Consider establishing food plots in strategic locations to improve nutrition and observation opportunities.
4) Predator Monitoring
While no coyotes were detected during this survey, continue monitoring for predator presence. Fox populations appear stable and pose minimal threat to adult deer, though they may impact fawn recruitment.
5) Future Flights and Data Tracking
Schedule the next survey in 10–12 months to track population changes, assess the effectiveness of management actions, and identify any shifts in distribution patterns. Consistent annual surveys will provide valuable trend data for long-term herd management.
Final Thoughts
This property supports a healthy, well-distributed deer herd with excellent potential for sustainable management. The current buck-to-doe ratio and population density are within optimal ranges for the habitat type and acreage. By implementing the recommended harvest strategies and continuing to monitor population dynamics through annual surveys, you can maintain herd health, improve buck quality over time, and ensure the long-term sustainability of this valuable wildlife resource. The data collected provides a solid baseline for informed decision-making and adaptive management in the years ahead.
Greenfield Partners Drone Services
Professional Deer Survey & Wildlife Management
This is an example report with anonymized data for demonstration purposes.