Methods for population control: a case study on the axis deer of Maui Island, HI
Date
2014
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
This study is an exploration of the social, ecological, and economic components of creating a commercialized hunt of non-native axis deer ( Axis axis ) on Maui Island, Hawaii. A series of interviews and surveys were used to determine the preferred population control policy alternatives to manage overabundant axis deer. The surveys placed an emphasis on exploring the feasibility of and attitudes towards the commercialized harvest method of control because it is a new and controversial policy alternative for Maui. A survey was distributed to locally owned and operated Hawaiian businesses that may be interested in utilizing axis deer parts in their products or supplying axis deer venison to their customers. Another survey was distributed via mail and advertised in newspapers to the general public of Maui. These surveys polled participants about their axis deer control method preferences and investigated the opinions of consumers about purchasing axis deer venison and other products. A subset of these questions meant solely for hunters--primarily regarding hunter education and attitudes about population control methods--were also distributed to the Maui hunting body through hunting clubs. Interviews with the Maui Axis Deer Working Group were also used to understand governmental preferences regarding population control. This study is the first comprehensive documentation available to the public that explores the efforts to create and maintain successful commercialized axis deer harvesting in Maui. Survey results indicate that there is ample market demand for axis deer products that would be available as a result of a commercialized harvest. Additionally, it was found that recreational hunting, commercialized harvesting, and fencing were the most preferred methods of populations control and it is recommended that unique blends of these methods should be used for different communities, based on local objectives.