The John Muir Trust (JMT) received funding from The Pebble Trust to promote deer stalking amongst women, and to raise awareness around tackling the issues of overgrazing of deer in the Highlands.
Over twelve women joined the deer stalking group throughout 2022 and 2023. They were, for the most part, nature enthusiasts and photographers, but also included women who did not have the confidence to stray from the relative safety of the footpath and were keen to experience deer stalking for the first time.
Ten introductory camera stalking sessions were undertaken as part of the project, and five women from different backgrounds and vocations formed a group named ‘Hindsight.’ These women came together online, and on the hill, to discuss deer overpopulation and how they could publicise the issues. Knowledge and skills were shared including survey fieldwork, ecology, art, architecture, and poetry.
A PhD project was also developed and collaborated with this group. The aim of the research is to explore further the disparate voices within the deer debate and is entitled ‘Deer, humans and trees and everything in between.’ This PhD is currently underway and due to finish in January 2028.
Hill to Grill
Due to covid lockdown and subsequent restrictions, the project evolved into an education programme for high school students. A particular highlight was being able to reach young people via the Hill to Grill project. This 5-day programme provided an immersive experience into camera stalking and butchery as well as cooking venison in the classroom.
As part of the Hill to Grill project, the JMT leader taught map and compass skills as an addition to the deer stalking programme and made a short video about one of these learning days.
The Assynt Community Deer Larder was opened in 2021 and ten local deer stalkers regularly use the facilities. The larder is a great resource for education as it can be used as a venue for butchery demonstrations and teaching. Butchery has been taught to Ullapool High School pupils undertaking the Junior Ranger programme.
JMT currently has two local individuals signed up to help with stalking on Quinag and Sandwood and hope that this will develop over time to include women who are suitably qualified and equipped.
Clear on Deer
Reducing deer numbers in the landscape is an essential part of JMT’s aims to improve the biodiversity of native fauna and the wildlife that relies on it. Visit JMT’s website for further information on the importance of deer management or have a look at this Clear on Deer documentary that JMT commissioned to promote sustainable land use.
Many thanks to the John Muir Trust for providing this month’s blog post.