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Photo: G. Bradley
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UK
Safari Tip:
Get help identifying deer and other British land mammals with this fully
illustrated ID chart - click here
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Latin name: Cervus elaphus
Size: The male is about 140cm at the shoulder, and the female is approximately
120cm. Adult males can weigh up to 200kg.
Distribution: Wild populations can be found in the Scottish Highlands, north Devon, the Lake District, the Quantock Hills,
the New Forest, East Anglia, the Lake District, the Peak District and The Brecon Beacons
(Wales). There are also many herds in parks throughout the UK. Those in the Lake District are native and the rest originate from park or deer farm escapees.
Months seen: All year. They are at their noisiest during October which is the time of the 'rut' (see below).
Habitat: Dense woods and open moorlands
Food: Grass and low growing vegetation, as well as leaves on trees. This can be noticed on the trees in the area which have a perfectly flat bottom to their branches, about two metres from the ground, which is the maximum height the deer can reach.
Special features: Although there are six species of deer living in Britain, only the red deer and the
roe deer are native. The red deer is our largest native land animal.
October is the time of year when the males round up a group of females for mating. The largest and strongest male generally has the largest harem.
In order to maintain this position of superiority the stag must constantly see off rival males. He continuously bellows out his echoing roar, and chases off any contenders which come near his females.
Sometimes this is not enough, and a male of similar size and strength will challenge for the right to mate with the females. When this happens a fight breaks out and the two males charge head first at each other. Their antlers can inflict serious wounds, and if both stags are determined enough, they will fight to the death. More usually one of them admits defeat and leaves the scene.
NOTE - Male red deer can be dangerous during the rutting season. Avoid
getting too close to them, and definitely do not get between them and the females. If you are walking your dog near them, for safety, keep it under close control or on a lead.
UK Safari Deer Section
UK Safari Mammal Section
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