Norway deer hunting practices spark animal welfare concerns

Early deer hunting seasons in Norway are raising concerns regarding animal welfare and the survival of orphaned calves. With hunting starting as early as September 1, there is an increased risk of hunters encountering newborn calves or shooting pregnant does, leading to the loss of offspring.

In 77 Norwegian municipalities, permission has been granted for quota-free hunting of calves, which theoretically allows hunters to shoot any calf they encounter once the season begins. Research from NINA indicated that in 2016, orphaned calves accounted for 1.5% to 1.7% of surviving deer calves following the hunting season.

Critics argue that these management practices cause significant emotional distress to mammals, citing neuroscientific research by Jaak Panksepp regarding the 'panic/grief-system' in the mammalian brain. Orphaned calves face increased risks of starvation, exposure to cold, and predation due to the loss of maternal milk, protection, and guidance.