Shotgun Deer Hunt To Close Tyler State Park In Bucks Co.

NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — A one-day antlered and antlerless deer hunt will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Tyler State Park in Newtown and Northampton townships.

The park will be closed to all other activities for the day. According to the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which oversees the park, the annual hunt helps maintain balance within the park’s ecosystem and the deer herd.

“Wildlife biologists have determined that the deer population is adversely affecting the natural habitat," park officials said. "Deer impact the delicate balance of the park’s ecosystem by over-browsing on tree saplings, forest understory, shrubs, and wildflowers. Large deer populations have caused damage to the park's natural ecosystem, resulting in a severe reduction in the biological diversity of plant and animal species in the area."

The one-day shotgun-only hunt is intended to reduce both antlered and antlerless deer populations, park officials said. Similar to hunts held in the past, only shotguns will be permitted, using “00” buckshot, and will be limited to 150 hunters holding special state park permits. Pre-registration took place earlier this year.

“DCNR’s Bureau of State Parks takes every precaution to ensure that the hunt is conducted safely," park officials said. "Safety zones, no hunting areas, and park boundaries will be posted and strictly enforced. Extra park rangers and wildlife conservation officers will be stationed throughout the park during the hunt."