Deer droppings are a common byproduct of the increasing presence of deer in residential areas. While not inherently toxic, their accumulation is an aesthetic nuisance and a potential vector for transferring pathogens to humans and pets. Zoonotic diseases like E. coli, Salmonella, and Giardia can be carried in deer feces, making careful removal necessary for maintaining a safe environment. Addressing deer droppings requires a systematic approach that prioritizes personal safety and thorough site sanitization.
Essential Safety Precautions and Supplies
Cleanup should begin by equipping yourself with appropriate personal protective equipment to prevent direct contact and inhalation. Heavy-duty, disposable gloves are needed to create a barrier between your skin and the waste material. A dust mask is advisable, especially when dealing with dry, older droppings, as disturbing them can aerosolize dust containing bacteria and spores. Eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, should be worn to shield the mucous membranes from accidental exposure.
Supplies include a dedicated scooping tool, such as a small hand rake or a pooper scooper. Heavy-duty, sealable plastic bags are required for collecting and containing the waste securely. A commercial disinfectant or a fresh bleach solution should be nearby for cleaning any tools or surfaces that become inadvertently contaminated. Once cleanup is complete, remove all protective gear and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water.
Methods for Collecting Deer Droppings
On soft surfaces like a lawn or garden soil, use a small, flat-edged shovel or a dedicated scoop and rake combination to lift the pellets without digging into the turf. Gently scrape the droppings into the collection container, avoiding crushing them, which might release fine dust particles. If the droppings are very dry, lightly spraying the area with water before collection can help keep them intact and minimize dust.
For hard surfaces, a stiff-bristled brush or broom can sweep the pellets directly into a dustpan. If the droppings are fresh, a quick spray with a garden hose can flush them off the surface. Direct the water away from storm drains or vegetable gardens to prevent spreading the material into water systems. When dealing with a large volume, a shop vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter can be considered. The filter and vacuum interior must be immediately disinfected or double-bagged and disposed of after use to avoid cross-contamination.
Proper Disposal and Site Sanitization
The most straightforward disposal method is to place the waste into heavy-duty plastic bags, seal them tightly, and dispose of them with regular household trash destined for a landfill. This process contains the material, preventing the release of potential pathogens, and is the generally recommended choice for most homeowners.
Composting Deer Droppings
Alternatively, deer droppings can be composted, but this requires a “hot composting” system that can reach and maintain high temperatures. To reliably destroy pathogens like E. coli and parasite eggs, the compost pile must achieve an internal temperature of at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) and sustain it for several days. Composting deer waste carries a higher risk and should only be attempted by experienced gardeners with a dedicated, well-managed system.
Surface Sanitization
After removal, the affected area requires sanitization, especially on hard surfaces. A mixture of one part household bleach to nine parts water is an effective disinfectant. This solution should be applied to hard surfaces and allowed to sit for several minutes before rinsing away.
Deterrents to Minimize Future Mess
Discouraging deer from entering the property is the most effective long-term solution. Installing physical barriers, such as a tall fence, is the most reliable method, requiring a barrier of at least seven to eight feet to deter jumping. Where fencing is impractical, sensory deterrents are an alternative. Motion-activated sprinklers deliver a sudden burst of water, startling the animals and encouraging them to move elsewhere.
Scent-based repellents are also an option. These must be reapplied periodically, particularly after rain or heavy watering, to maintain effectiveness. Simple yard modifications can reduce attraction, such as promptly removing fallen fruit from trees or securing any external feed sources that might draw deer to the area.