Red Deer
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. 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. The male is about 140cm at the shoulder, and the female is approximately 120cm. Adult males can weigh up to 200kg.
Size: 3600px × 5400px
Location: Bradgate Park
Photo credit: © TomsPhotos / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: 4, animal, autumn, british, cervus, deer, dense, elaphus, european, legged, mamal, moorlands, open, red, rut, rutt, stag, wildlife, woodland, woods
