Stalking seasons for different deer species are designed to protect breeding females and young, with welfare implications from both hunting and the absence of regulation.
Stalking season management welfare involves both the welfare of culled animals and the welfare of animals affected by management decisions. Culling outside close seasons without adequate consideration for orphaned young creates welfare problems for dependent calves and fawns. Year-round crop protection culling requires particular care to assess whether females are with dependent young before shooting. Adherence to close seasons protects breeding success and prevents orphan welfare harms.