Frequently
Asked Questions
For
Deer Breeding
Q:
I want to be a deer breeder but I don't know where to start?
A:
The best place to start is with your wildlife biologist.
Together you can design a plan that suits your needs based on your
goals and resources.
Q:
How do I choose a biologist?
A:
The state requires that your pen be inspected by a certified
wildlife biologist. However, there are two classifications
of certified biologists. The Wildlife Society, an
internationally recognized authority on wildlife issues, has
stringent criteria on the certification of biologists. Texas
Parks & Wildlife has much lighter criteria for breeding pen
certification. Therefore, all biologists certified by The Wildlife
Society meet TPWD's criteria, but not necessarily the other way
around.
If
you are looking for a biologist that can guide you through all
aspects of a breeding program, including laws and regulations
pertaining to them, we suggest you seek out a biologist
certified by The Wildlife Society such as those employed by TWM.
Q:
How big should my breeding pen be and how many deer can I place in
it?
A:
The statute that defines the activities of a scientific breeding
facility states that no facility may be larger than 100
acres. There is no TPWD regulation that dictates a minimum size
nor places a limit on the number of deer you can put in a
facility. However, you should visit with your biologist
regarding your pen design and determine what will be most suitable
for your pen based on your goals and the pen's resources.
Q:
How do I choose the deer I purchase?
A:
All deer that enter your facility have to be purchased from
another breeder. Obviously you want to buy the best quality
at the most affordable price. We suggest you look at several
facilities before you choose whom you will purchase deer
from. The relationships you develop visiting these
facilities will help you if there are any troubles after you
purchase your deer.
Once
you do purchase deer, you should ensure the following: 1) You
receive a pedigree for each deer, 2) All deer that enter your
facility are properly tagged and tattooed, 3) All deer have received
any medications both parties have agreed upon, and 4) You receive
all the necessary paperwork from the seller.
Q: I
found cheaper deer from out of Texas. Can I bring them into
the state?
A:
Current regulations prohibits breeders from transporting deer into
Texas due to health concerns (primarily Chronic Wasting Disease).
Q: How much
should I feed my new born fawns if I'm going to handraise them.
A: See our
HandRaising White-tailed Deer Fawn page. Click
Here.
Specific
Information About the Deer Breeder Permit
View
Breeder Deer
