Judge rules 2,000 Catalina Island deer can be killed to save native plant species

A recent ruling by a county judge has authorized the Catalina Island Conservancy to proceed with the culling of nearly all of the island's 2,000 mule deer. This decision comes after years of efforts to manage the non-native deer population, which has been linked to the spread of invasive grasses that threaten native plant species on the island.

For nearly a century, the mule deer have been a beloved part of Catalina Island, often seen roaming the streets of Avalon. However, their increasing numbers have led to significant ecological concerns. Experts argue that the deer’s consumption of native shrubs has allowed invasive grasses to flourish, which ignite more quickly and spread fire more easily.

The prospect of culling such a large number of deer has sparked intense opposition from the public, uniting animal activists and hunters in a coalition against the plan. An online petition opposing the culling has gathered over 32,000 signatures. Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn has also voiced her concerns, urging California Governor Gavin Newsom to intervene, but her requests were ultimately unsuccessful.

On Thursday, the judge denied a preliminary injunction that would have halted the culling, allowing the conservancy to move forward with its controversial plan.