Deer cull aids velvet prices

DUNEDIN - Deer antler velvet prices have been helped in their "bounce-back" by vigorous culling of second-grade animals, says South Otago Deer Farmers' Group secretary Ken Harrex.

Some deer farmers had sold off all their velveting stags. Mr Harrex culled the bottom end of his herd from 200 to 150 head.

This approach had improved the quality of herds, he said.

It also brought back a balance between supply and demand. Velveting stag production had improved since 10 years ago, when 3kg of velvet was seen as acceptable. Top animals now produced up to 5kg.

A-grade velvet prices were rising to $150 a kg, said Mr Harrex. Last season, it was selling for about $40.

- NZPA