MARQUETTE — Wildlife biologists with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources are reporting an initial drop in the number of deer checked at stations across the Upper Peninsula since Friday’s opening day, compared to the same time period in 2018.

“All of these figures, which are through Sunday, are preliminary and numerous factors – such as snow depth, hunter participation, day of the week of opening day and temperatures, among others – can affect comparisons between given years,” said John Pepin, DNR deputy public information officer. “When compared to the 10-year average, some check stations were up from last year.”

The DNR station in Escanaba was down 9 percent from last year and down 11 percent on a 10-year average comparison.

Findings at other U.P. DNR stations compared to 2018 data include:

– Baraga: 23 percent down (16 percent down 10-year average)

– Crystal Falls: 13 percent down (4 percent up 10-year average)

– Marquette: 4 percebnt down (24 percent up 10-year average)

– Newberry: 18 percent down (16 percent up 10-year average)

Norway had registered 52 deer through Sunday, which appears to be down a little from 2018 as well.

“On average, we appear to be down about 14% from the same time in 2018,” said DNR wildlife biologist David Jentoft, describing the region-wide results. “However, this is just a quick snapshot. This will likely change as the season moves on.”

Wildlife biologist observations:

– A majority of deer checked at U.P. DNR check stations have been bucks.

– Deer have had good body condition and about average antler development.

– Staff report seeing quite a few 2.5-year-old, and older, bucks coming in and not as many younger bucks so far.

– Many hunters are reporting seeing good deer numbers, including bucks, and hunter attitudes have generally been good.

– Hunting conditions were a little tough on opening day in some areas with strong winds and snow in some places. Temperatures started in the upper 20s but dropped through the day.

– The second day started cold but warmed up and conditions have been favorable since in most areas through Sunday. However, northern parts of the eastern U.P. have received as much as 30 inches of snow. This has spurred deer migration and caused some hunters not to be able to reach their camps or hunting locations. 

– Hunters in or near the Core CWD Surveillance Area have been interested in having their deer tested for disease. Hunters in other areas have been asking some questions, but few have submitted samples for testing. All deer that have come into the Norway check station have been tested.