The restoration of game wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey and wood ducks, is one of the most celebrated accomplishments of modern wildlife management. The comeback of these iconic species was the result of several factors – hunter/conservationist support, dedicated funding, creation of wildlife agencies, habitat conservation and introduction of game laws. Wildlife research also played a pivotal role in these conservation success stories. And research continues to be the underpinning of science-based wildlife management today. Through research, biologists have improved their understanding of wildlife ecology.
However, it’s critical we continue to collect and analyze data due to changing landscapes, hunter preferences and wildlife populations. Another reason to continue investing in research is the opportunity to incorporate improvements in technology, such as the advent of satellite GPS transmitters, that can yield new and important insights beyond what was available when older technologies were used.
Ensuring we have the best available information – versus observations not supported by measurable data – is vital for wildlife managers when making decisions about season lengths, bag limits and more. Research results and hunter preferences are key factors that support the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Division of Hunting and Game Management goal of providing hunting opportunities while meeting conservation objectives and maintaining populations at acceptable levels.
HGM biologists work with the FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, universities and other partners on research projects designed to increase knowledge that addresses specific management questions and improves conservation practices. HGM currently is participating in the leading-edge research efforts outlined below.
North Florida Deer Study
The FWC’s North Florida Deer Study, which began in 2020, is examining white-tailed deer population dynamics in north central Florida. Now in its second year, biologists are using state-of-the-art strategies and equipment, such as GPS collars and trail
