Changes to the Open Season for hunting of wild deer were announced on 29th February 2024.

Effective immediately, the new Open Season for hunting of wild deer under licence will be as follows:

Male deer (all species): 1st August to the following 31st April
Female & antler-less deer (all species: 1st November to the following 31st March.
Muntjac deer: 1st September to the following 31st August
Red deer in Co. Kerry: Fully protected at all times (no Open Season).

The Open Season 2023-2024 which otherwise would otherwise have ended on 28th February 2023 has been re-opened for male deer and will now end on 31st April 2024. The Open Season for Female and antler-less deer which otherwise have ended on 28th February 2024 will now end on 31st March 2024.

The 2024-2025 Open Season will open on 1st August 2024.

For Licensees and Permit Holders for hunting on Coillte Forest Property the necessary amendments to HAMS are presently being put into effect.

To read the Ministerial announcement on these changes, click HERE

To access Statutory Instrument No. 66 of 2024 Wildlife (Wild Mammals) (Open Seasons) (Amendment) Order 2024 giving effect these changes, click HERE