Illegal hunting fears as deer draw visitors to southwest

TOURISM in Killarney is enjoying a boost this autumn, thanks to large numbers of visitors travelling to the town to catch the dramatic antics of the local deer population as rutting season gets under way.

However, there have also been reports of illegal hunting in an area just north of the Co. Kerry town.

Wildlife crime has soared in the country’s southeast this season, according to the Irish Deer Commission. Infrared is being used by hunters to target deer, according to the IDC, which has discussed the issue with An Garda Síochána.

A video shared on social media recently showed a large red stag being chased by dogs at night as poachers drive alongside with powerful lamps. The dazzled animal is struck by the vehicle as the poachers laugh at his distress. Damien Hannigan, public relations officer with the IDC, said the footage was ‘deeply disturbing’. ‘Sadly this type of crime is common,’ he said. ‘Since September we’ve received 34 reports of suspected crimes against wild deer or deer poaching.’

With the hunting of deer regulated by law, there are fears of illegal hunting in advance of the Christmas season. ‘As the days grow shorter we will see an increase in this crime,’ Mr Hannigan said. ‘We would call on hunters and the general public to report suspicious activity to their local Garda station.’