North Carolina Officials Warn That Dangerous Deer Attacks Are on the Rise in the State 

North Carolina Witnessing Increase in Deer-related Attacks

In recent news, reports from North Carolina highlight a concerning trend in the rise of deer attacks, posing threats to both wildlife and humans. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) issued a statement on December 1, shedding light on the alarming surge of deer-related incidents within the state. The commission noted multiple documented cases of deer attacking people and dogs in 2025 across six counties including Rockingham, Randolph, Wilkes, Onslow, Iredell, and Cherokee.

Highlighting the severity of the situation, one particularly distressing incident took place on November 6, where a 70-year-old individual was hospitalised after being gored by a male deer in close proximity to her mailbox. The NCWRC pointed out a common factor in many of the deer attacks of 2025, attributing them to deer that were either fed or raised illegally by humans, thereby losing their natural fear of human interactions.

This increase in deer attacks has alarmed experts like April Boggs Pope, a deer scientist, who emphasised the potential dangers of humanising deer. She explained that deer losing their natural fear can exhibit abnormal behaviour, especially during mating season when aggression peaks. Deer that are accustomed to human contact may pose serious risks as their behaviours become unpredictable, potentially leading to severe injuries caused by their antlers and hooves.

The NCWRC revealed that several recorded deer attacks in 2025 involved animals that had been desensitised to human interaction, exemplified by an incident on October 21 where an illegally raised buck attacked a woman, leaving her with injuries. Additionally, a deer fed by residents of a subdivision resulted in the tragic death of a pet dog, underscoring the dangers associated with human interference in the wildlife’s natural habitat.

It is essential to note that in North Carolina, owning most native wildlife, including deer, for amusement or companionship purposes is unlawful. The NCWRC strictly prohibits the possession of wild animals unless authorised through a wildlife captivity license, which is granted solely for scientific, educational, or exhibition motives. While feeding wild deer is not prohibited in many areas of North Carolina, hand-feeding deer is discouraged due to the potential threats it poses to public safety.

Colleen Olfenbuttel, a supervisor at the NCWRC, cautioned against attempting to domesticate wild deer, highlighting the adverse effects on both the deer’s health and safety. She emphasised the risks of malnourishment and poor health associated with artificial foods provided by residents, which lack the essential nutrition required by wild deer. Moreover, instances of deer attacking humans have led to the euthanisation of these animals, reflecting the dire consequences of human interference in the wildlife ecosystem.

To address the escalating issue of deer attacks, the NCWRC recommends contacting the N.C. Wildlife Helpline to report any instances of illegal deer raising or seek assistance in managing human-deer conflicts safely. By raising awareness and promoting responsible wildlife interactions, efforts can be made to mitigate the risks posed by domesticating wild animals, ultimately fostering a safer environment for both wildlife and communities.

In conclusion, the surge in deer attacks in North Carolina serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife. It underscores the importance of respecting and preserving the natural behaviours of wild animals, steering clear of practices that jeopardise their well-being and safety. Through vigilance and adherence to wildlife protection regulations, steps can be taken to minimise conflicts and foster harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.