Just two years ago, a 350-hectare heath plantation in South-Central Jutland was taken over by a small group of experienced hunters. For years, the plantation had a reputation for being “the forest without game” – an area where game simply didn't settle.

But with a clear vision and a simple motto “Peace and food”, the group set out to change the course of events. The goal was ambitious: to create an attractive habitat for red deer and, in the long term, to establish a sustainable territory where the game would thrive.

Dialogue and cooperation as a foundation

From the outset, the group emphasised cooperation. Both the forest owner and the forest manager were involved in the plans, and agreement was reached from the start that management should be based on balance and long-term thinking.

• The hunt pressure should be minimal. The red deer should have peace to stay in the area.
• Habitat: The game's food source should be significantly improved with new initiatives in the habitat.

Professional approach to wild game

With assistance from Faunamaster, the plantation was thoroughly reviewed. The aim was to utilise the terrain optimally and create attractive wildlife areas where game could forage undisturbed, as well as function as regular gathering points for red deer.

After careful consideration, the choice fell upon:

• Faunamaster Boost – a blend that ensures high feed quality, with plenty of feed units.
• Faunamaster Forest Recovery – targeting deer and for establishment in forest areas where soil and nutrient conditions can make establishment particularly challenging.

The land was worked, limed, and fertilised according to regulations, and by spring 2025, over the summer, the wildflower meadows stood ready as green oases in the middle of the heath plantation.

The results were not long in coming.

Already that same year the reward came. Red deer began to move into the area, and in a short time, several hinds were registered as permanently staying in the forest, which otherwise only had been seen passing through previously.

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

• The animals' welfare and time spent in the forest have changed from roaming to permanent. 
• Several hindrances have placed calves in the woods.
• In record time, the estate has shed its reputation as a “forest without game” and become an attractive red deer habitat.
• Strong stags have been culled on the estate through selective shooting, all mature stags, with more than 12 points. 

Learning for other managers and hunters.

The success of the Jutland heathland plantation is a textbook example of how targeted management can transform an area; the combination of protection, feeding, and cooperation has proven to be the key.

History shows that even areas without a tradition of strong populations can develop into attractive habitats – if one thinks long-term, invests in the food base, and respects the wildlife's need for peace.

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