The Catalina Island Conservancy plans to eradicate more than 2,000 mule deer to reduce wildfire risk, sparking backlash from residents and local officials. (Shutterstock)
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The Catalina Island Conservancy plans to eradicate the island’s mule deer population to reduce wildfire risks, reviving controversy after a previous aerial hunting proposal was scrapped, the Los Angeles Times reported.
The nonprofit, which manages most of the island, has applied for state approval to use professional contractors to shoot the estimated 2,165 deer from the ground. Officials say the animals fuel wildfires by consuming native plants, allowing invasive grasses to spread.
Opponents, including Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, are urging the state to reject the plan, calling it inhumane. Critics say other options like expanded hunting, relocation, or sterilization should be prioritized.
The conservancy says past hunting seasons failed to control the herd and argues removal is essential to protect biodiversity. If approved, the effort could begin early next year and last about five years.
Read more at the Los Angeles Times.
