Targeted red deer management creates results on the Jutland moors

Just two years ago, a 350-hectare moorland plantation in south-central Jutland was taken over by a small group of experienced hunters. For years, the plantation had had a reputation as the “forest without game” – an area where game simply did not settle.

But with a clear vision and a simple motto “peace and food”, the group set out to change things. The goal was ambitious: to create an attractive habitat for red deer and eventually establish a sustainable territory where the game would thrive.

Dialogue and collaboration as a foundation

From the beginning, the group emphasized collaboration. Both the forest owner and forester were involved in the plans, and it was agreed from the start that management should be based on balance and long-term thinking.

–    Peace: Hunting pressure should be minimal. The red deer should be allowed to stay in the area.

– Food: The game’s food supply should be significantly improved with new measures in the terrain.

Professional approach to wild hunters

With the assistance of Faunamaster, the plantation was thoroughly reviewed. The aim was to make optimal use of the terrain and create attractive game areas where the game could forage in peace, as well as serve as permanent gathering points for the red deer.

After careful consideration, the choice fell on:

– Faunamaster Boost – a blend that ensures high feed quality with plenty of feed units.

– Faunamaster Forest Recovery – targeted at deer and for establishment in forest areas where soil and nutrient conditions can make establishment particularly challenging.

The soil was tilled, limed and fertilized according to regulations in the spring of 2025, and over the summer the wildlife gardens were ready as green oases in the middle of the heath plantation.

The results were not long in coming.

The reward came the same year. The red deer began to move into the area, and in a short time, several packs were registered as permanent residents in the forest, which had previously only been seen in passing.

After just two years of targeted management, the results are tangible:

–                           The animals’ well-being and time spent in the forest has changed from transient to permanent.

–                           Several obstacles have put calves in the forest.

–                           In record time, the plantation has changed its reputation from “the forest without game” to an attractive red deer hunting ground.

–                           Strong deer have been hunted on the territory with selective shooting, all mature deer with more than 12 ends. 

Learning for other managers and hunters.

The success of the Jutland heath plantation is a textbook example of how targeted management can transform an area, the combination of peace, food and cooperation has proven to be key.

History shows that even areas without a tradition of strong populations can develop into attractive habitats – if you think long term, invest in the food base and respect the wildlife’s need for tranquility.

In this case, the starting point has been red deer, but the management plan can be used for all cervids