Deer Cull On Fire Island National Seashore To Resume After Pause From Winter Storm

FIRE ISLAND, NY — The annual deer cull at Fire Island National Seashore will resume between Feb. 23 and 27 on National Parks Service lands after a pause in January due to winter storm impacts and frigid temperatures, the agency announced Wednesday.

In January, the parks service completed deer removal operations at the William Floyd Estate in Mastic Beach, according to the agency.

White-tailed deer damage plants and eat most native plant species, causing the ecosystem to become unbalanced, the agency said.

"Having an overabundance of deer in these areas shrinks the size of our forested areas and prevents forest regeneration. Damage from deer also decreases habitat available for native birds and other wildlife," the agency said in a news release. "Highly qualified wildlife professionals will carry out the removal operations on Fire Island."

Deer reduction activities will take place on federal lands only, with areas of the park closed for the public’s safety, according to the agency.

Additional information about deer management efforts, including outreach and education, frequently asked questions, and research articles can be found at by clicking here.