Story perspectives

NC Wildlife Warns: Stop Feeding Wild Deer After Attacks

12/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) warns residents against feeding or taming wild deer after a string of attacks.
Recent incidents include a woman hospitalized after being gored by a buck and another woman injured by a deer raised illegally.
The commission advises against hand-feeding deer and asks residents to report illegal captivity through the NC Wildlife Helpline.

History

Historical Context

In 1971, North Carolina passed the Wildlife Resources Act to safeguard native wildlife, prohibiting deer captivity due to public safety and animal welfare concerns. This legislation emerged amid growing awareness of wildlife protection, paralleling national efforts like the Wild and Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. Recent incidents, such as a deer attack in Wilkes County, underscore ongoing challenges with illegal captivity and human-wildlife interactions.

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Story summary

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) warns residents against feeding or taming wild deer after a string of attacks.
Recent incidents include a woman hospitalized after being gored by a buck and another woman injured by a deer raised illegally.
The commission advises against hand-feeding deer and asks residents to report illegal captivity through the NC Wildlife Helpline.

1 / 2