Wild Neighbors: White-tailed Deer

In this ongoing series, “Wild Neighbors,” we take a closer look at the wild animals that share our neighborhoods, farmland, and natural spaces throughout Sangamon County. From the skies to the waterways—and everything in between—these species are part of everyday life in Central Illinois and play important roles in the local ecosystem.

The White-tailed Deer is one of the most familiar and widespread mammals in Sangamon County. Known for their graceful movements and distinctive white tail—raised as a warning signal when they sense danger—these deer are commonly seen in woodlands, agricultural fields, and increasingly in suburban and semi-rural areas. White-tailed Deer are herbivores, feeding on grasses, crops, shrubs, and the leaves and buds of trees, and their adaptability allows them to thrive in a wide range of habitats.

White-tailed Deer are most active during the early morning and evening hours. They are often observed grazing or moving in small groups, particularly along field edges and wooded corridors. During the fall and winter months, when natural food sources become limited, deer may travel longer distances and move closer to roads and residential areas. This seasonal movement contributes to an increased risk of vehicle collisions and highlights the challenges of managing wildlife in areas where development and natural habitat overlap.

In Sangamon County and across Central Illinois, regulated deer hunting is one of the primary tools used to help manage deer populations. According to data released December 16 by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, hunters harvested a preliminary total of 81,225 deer statewide during the seven-day 2025 Illinois firearm deer season, which concluded December 7. That total is slightly lower than the 82,496 deer harvested during the 2024 season.

In Sangamon County, hunters harvested a preliminary total of 605 deer during the 2025 firearm season, compared with 544 deer in 2024. Across Illinois, the first weekend of the firearm season accounted for 51,409 deer harvested, while an additional 29,816 deer were taken during the second weekend. These harvest figures help wildlife biologists track population trends and guide future management decisions.

Additional deer hunting opportunities remain available in Illinois, including late-winter antlerless-only and chronic wasting disease (CWD) seasons in designated counties, as well as the ongoing archery deer season, which continues through mid-January.

White-tailed Deer also play an important role in the local food chain, serving as prey for predators such as coyotes and bobcats. Their feeding habits influence plant growth and forest regeneration, shaping the landscape over time. With fewer natural predators and continued development across Central Illinois, ongoing monitoring and responsible management remain essential to maintaining balance between wildlife, agriculture, and the communities they share.