Deer management on Quinag - update

The John Muir Trust’s woodland restoration at Quinag: December 2022 update.  

Reducing deer density is essential for woodland restoration at Quinag and we have applied for and been granted authorisations from NatureScot for culling deer until the end of March and at night. 

Our objective is to allow recovery of the remnant woodlands on Quinag. On the south side there is an ancient holly grove spreading across the lower slopes (Doire Cuilinn). Almost invisible from the road, it also contains vulnerable populations of other tree species, all struggling to survive. On the north side there are downy birch woodlands with rowan, wych elm, aspen, oak, and hazel, which are part of a larger Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation; these also continue to suffer browsing damage from deer. As the deer move back and forth between these two areas, reducing the deer population and their impacts across Quinag is essential for the survival and recovery of these woodlands.

After over a decade participating  in the Assynt Peninsula Sub Group (APSG)  and the wider West Sutherland Deer Management group, there has been little progress and these fragile woodlands at Quinag continue to suffer damage as a result. Deer densities in the area remain above the historical targets set by the APSG, and significantly above the densities that would  enable these woodlands to recover. 

We feel the time is right for a different approach. We have withdrawn our voluntary membership of the APSG, until such time as we can be assured it can work  in a way that recognises legitimate management objectives, land-owning rights and responsibilities, and the rights of staff to work with others in a respectful environment. The Trust will continue to share plans and actions on deer management locally and with the Chair of the ASPG. 

To find out more about the Trust’s approach to deer management please read our leaflet.