Recognized as the state animal since 1959, the white-tailed deer can be found from our most remote forests to our most developed cities. Because so many different people are affected by deer, differences of opinion are the common. Although the deer program cannot guarantee personal satisfaction for all people, the Game Commission manages white-tailed deer as attentively, responsibly and responsively as possible.

Pennsylvania's deer program is guided by biological and social goals. Hunters, homeowners, farmers, municipal officials, foresters and others helped establish the Game Commission's deer management goals. These goals focus on the impacts of deer on themselves, habitat and other wildlife, and people. This work, which is never-ending, aims to balance different points of view, so the greatest good can be achieved for all of Pennsylvania's wildlife and citizens for today and tomorrow.