Knowing absolute or/and relative density of the deer population is one of the preconditions for sustainable population management. So far, the size of the deer population estimation was based on previous deer culling. As this method is questionable, we wanted to verify its accuracy by counting the number of deer faeces piles. We used this method in three areas of Slovenia: Sneznik, Kocevje and Pohorje. We selected 40 plots with different deer population densities in each of the three areas, and randomly selected two areas to analyse within each of the 40 plots. The analysed areas were sized between 200m2 and 400m2 depending on the terrain and its overgrowth. Firstly, we removed all faeces samples from the analysed areas and returned to them in specific time intervals to count the newly formed faeces. We removed the faeces after each such count was conducted. Based on these counts, we used a formula to calculate the deer density of the area and of the plots: In next step we compared our results against the results based on the culling method. The results of the two methods did not match fully by comparing individual areas; however, they matched if the overall results of all three areas of Slovenia were taken into consideration and compared. Our results suggest the deer density in the Sneznik area is 1,7/km2, 2,0/km2 in the Kocevje area, and 6,4/km2 in the Pohorje area, while the density calculated based on culling suggest is as follows: 3,9/km2 in the Sneznik area, 3,0/km2 in the Kocevje area, and 5,9/km2 in the Pohorje area. The counting of deer faeces piles method is easy for use and provides reliable results. In general, the method would be useful for assessing the density of the deer population or as verification method for culling method results.
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