The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has announced that biologists will conduct spotlight surveys across the state in August and September to monitor white-tailed deer populations.
The nighttime surveys are a critical part of the agency’s deer management plan and help wildlife managers estimate local deer numbers, track population trends and make informed decisions about future hunting seasons and habitat conservation efforts.
This year’s surveys will take place from Aug. 18-29 and Sept. 15-26 and will start 30 minutes after sunset.
During the survey period, DNR staff will drive predetermined routes along county roads, using spotlights to count deer.
During the survey period, residents may notice marked DNR vehicles using spotlights at night along these routes.
All surveys are conducted safely and responsibly, with precautions in place to limit disturbance to landowners and wildlife.