Arlington, VA – Arlington County is taking to the skies again to track its white-tailed deer population. From March 17-21, 2025 (weather permitting), officials will use aerial drones to conduct the county’s second-ever drone survey of local deer numbers. This follows the first survey in 2021 and is a key step in Arlington’s Deer Management Program, which aims to protect ecosystems and maintain public safety.
Why It Matters
Arlington officials are using drone technology to get an accurate picture of the county’s deer population, which will help guide future decisions about managing local wildlife. Overpopulation can damage native plant communities and disrupt the delicate ecological balance in Arlington’s parks and green spaces.
How the Survey Works
- Heat-Based Detection: The drones detect heat signatures from deer, using low-resolution images to verify findings while protecting residents’ privacy.
- Federal and Local Approvals: Arlington has worked with the FAA, DHS, TSA, Secret Service, Reagan National Airport, and ACPD to ensure the survey complies with all federal and local regulations.
- Security Compliance: Due to Arlington’s location within a 15-mile restricted flight zone around Washington, D.C., drone flights are generally prohibited—but this survey has special authorization from federal agencies.
What’s Next?
Once the data is analyzed, Arlington County will publish the results on its Deer Management Program webpage. Residents interested in updates can sign up for notifications through the county’s website.