Why Venison

Supporting the forest and those who live there

Protecting the Ancient Woodlands of the New Forest

Despite its name, the New Forest is a diverse landscape of ancient woodland, heath, bog, and pasture. Thanks to centuries of protection, it has remained largely unchanged for over 1,000 years. These ancient woodlands rely on natural regeneration, with seeds such as acorns replacing fallen trees and growing afresh.

However, a recent explosion in the deer population means this regeneration is no longer happening naturally. To protect the forest, deer numbers must be controlled — and by buying local New Forest venison, you’re directly supporting that vital conservation work.

Balancing Nature and Sustainability

Deer have been part of the New Forest landscape for over a millennium. In fact, the name “New Forest” dates back to William the Conqueror, who established it as a royal hunting ground. Today, within the New Forest deer numbers have risen dramatically to well over 10,000*, and with no natural predators, careful population management is essential.

In large numbers, deer overgraze and browse heavily, damaging young trees and threatening protected flora and fauna. To limit this ecological harm, an annual deer management programme takes place. As a result, eating local, New Forest wild venison is not only a sustainable, low-carbon choice — it’s also a healthy one.

(*Population estimates derived from FiPL funded drone thermal surveys)

A Tasty, Healthy, Local Choice

Venison is a lean, protein-rich meat that provides higher levels of iron, vitamin B, and omega-3 fatty acids than beef. What’s more unlike factory-farmed animals, wild deer live freely and are never given antibiotics or hormones. Harvested humanely in accordance with deer management plans, they experience none of the stress associated with transportation to abattoirs — and the result is naturally superior meat, both in quality and taste.

By choosing New Forest wild venison from a trusted local supplier, butcher, or farm shop, you’ll know exactly where your food comes from, support the local economy, and help preserve this unique landscape. Why not give it a try?

“Venison is Sustainable, Tasty, Healthy and Forest-Friendly”