Responsible wild deer management is essential.

Britain’s wild deer population has grown significantly in recent decades. Managing it responsibly is essential for our woodlands, farmland, and biodiversity. The wild venison produced through that management is nutritious, sustainable, and increasingly in demand. This page explains why these things matter and where BQWV fits in.

Britain's deer population and why it needs managing

Deer populations across the UK have increased significantly in recent decades. Estimates suggest the total population may be around 2 million, though figures vary by species and region and are subject to ongoing monitoring. Six species live wild here, only two of them are native, and they have no natural predators. Wild deer are a valued part of the UK’s natural heritage, contributing to our landscapes and biodiversity. Without active management, deer numbers expand rapidly, causing serious damage to woodlands, farmland, and conservation sites, threatening the very environments deer depend on. Population management is an essential part of responsible land stewardship.

All deer management is carried out throughout the year (with seasons varying by species and sex) within legal frameworks and in line with recognised best practice. Ensuring humane, safe, and ethical practices by trained and competent individuals is central to responsible deer management.

Why deer management matters

2 Million +

Wild deer estimated across Britain today, up from around 450,000 in the 1970s*

33%

Of England's woodlands are negatively affected by deer browsing*

6

Deer species living wild in Britain and only 2 are native*

Woodland & biodiversity

Unchecked deer strip ground vegetation, prevent natural regeneration, and reduce habitats for birds and other wildlife. Species such as dormice and nightingales rely on dense undergrowth that disappears when deer pressure is high.

Agriculture & forestry

Deer damage crops, commercial forestry, and new woodland planting. Browsing, bark stripping, and crop losses cost farmers and foresters millions each year.

Woodland creation & nature recovery

The government has committed to increasing woodland cover in England to 16.5% by 2050. Without effective deer control, young trees rarely survive. Good management is essential for meeting national climate and biodiversity goals.

Road safety

Estimates suggest that there are deer-related road collisions every 7 minutes in Britain each year. Managing populations helps reduce accidents, particularly where roads run close to woodland.*

*Sources: Forestry Commission / DEFRA Deer Impacts Policy Statement (February 2026); British Deer Society. Statistics correct at time of publication

Government recognition: the DEFRA Deer Impacts Policy Statement

Published in February 2026, the government’s Deer Impacts Policy Statement sets out a ten year plan to respond to the scale of deer impacts. It recognises that effective management is necessary to achieve woodland creation and nature recovery targets.

The policy also opens public procurement routes for wild venison, including schools, hospitals, and prisons, for suppliers who hold recognised certification. This shows that a strong, assured venison market is part of the national approach to deer management.

BQWV is the only independently assessed certification scheme for wild venison producers and processors in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It provides the structure required to deliver on these commitments.

Wild venison: a product worth taking seriously

Every responsibly culled deer represents a high-quality, sustainable food product. Wild venison is a natural and nutritious outcome of effective and responsible population management, making it one of Britain’s most environmentally sound meats.

Wild deer live freely, graze naturally, and receive no growth promoters, routine antibiotics or artificial feed. For consumers seeking ethical and transparent sourcing, venison is an appealing choice.

Demand for British wild venison is growing, and the market has real potential to expand further. BQWV certification gives producers and processors the consistent, independent assurance that buyers need to source with confidence – helping the whole sector grow on a stable and quality-assured foundation.

The nutritional case for wild venison

Wild venison is high in protein, low in saturated fat, and rich in iron, zinc, B vitamins, and omega 3 fatty acids. It suits health-conscious consumers seeking lower-fat menus, and caterers and public-sector buyers looking for nutritious and sustainable ingredients. Wild venison makes a strong case on nutritional grounds alone.

Read more here
Nutritional Benefits - Image source: Eat Wild
Eat Wild nutritionals venison beef grouse
Nutritional Benefits - Image source: Eat Wild
Eat Wild nutritionals pheasant chicken venison

Where BQWV fits in

BQWV certification is the link between the work of the deer stalker in the field and the confidence of the buyer at the end of the chain. It provides the independent assurance that the venison has been handled, processed, and documented to a high recognised standard at every stage.

Are you a producer?

BQWV certification helps stalkers and estates supply traceable and quality assured venison to processors and game dealers.

Download the free BQWV Producer Handbook and pre-application checklist to prepare for assessment.

Download the Handbook

Are you a processor?

Government policy now promotes the procurement of wild venison. Certified processors are well placed to benefit. BQWV provides the independent credentials supermarkets, restaurants, caterers, and public sector buyers increasingly expect.

Processor certification

Further information and guidance

Supported & endorsed by

Forestry England
The National Gamekeepers Organisation
The British Deer Society
The British Association for Shooting & Conservation
Grown in Britain
National Game Dealers Association
DEFRA & Forestry Commission
Intertek SAI Global
Natural Resources Wales