Deer numbers on Cannock Chase are up in one of harshest winters for years

The Chase is home to one of the largest herds of deer in the UK, with around 800 to 1000 fallow deer and 80 to 100 red deer.

An annual survey of the animals was done by countryside rangers yesterday. While the animals are native to the area and vital to its eco-system, their numbers need to be controlled to make sure the herd is viable.

Noreen Moore, rural access manager at Staffordshire County Council, said the count showed that despite the recent cold snap there has been an increase in deer at the beauty spot.

"The census takes place on one morning every year and involves county council countryside rangers working with their Forestry Commission counterparts," she said.

"It is not an exact science and will not provide a precise number of deer.

"However it will give a very good indication of whether numbers are increasing, reducing or stable.

"So far, despite the unusually cold weather conditions and in line with the rest of the country, we have certainly seen an increase in the deer population."

An increase in deer can cause problems such as a shortage of food and an increase risk of road casualties. As it stands, around 200 deer are killed by road accidents around the Chase.

Extra numbers could also see more deer raid neighbouring farmland for food, causing problems for local farmers. Farmers also have the legal right to shoot deer on their land if the animals are becoming pests.

Leader of Cannock Chase District Council, Councillor George Adamson, has urged drivers to take extra care when driving through the Chase after the news of an increase in deer.

He said: "Despite the possible issues which could be caused by the increase in deer, I would absolutely be against any form of deer cull."

The census began at around 6am yesterday, with the earlier sunrise making it possible to count before too many visitors arrived.