Red Deer Stag Bellowing on the open hill during the Autumn Rut. XMM 3896-372
In August the stags that up to this time of year have been living in large stag groups start to become intolerant of each other. An increased testosterone level causes this reaction, along with an increase in neck and testicle size. This hormonal change is also responsible for the cleaning of velvet from stags’ antlers. As with most other aspects of a deer’s life cycle, this is governed by photoperiod (the daily period of light and darkness). At this time hinds begin to reduce their range and congregate in traditional rutting areas. Shortly thereafter, in early September, stags ‘breakout-out’ from the stag groups and take possession of hind harems. Once resident, these ‘master stags’ which are invariably between the ages five and 11 years old, start defending their harem and herding in any passing hinds. All of this rutting activity, which even precludes eating, takes its toll on the condition of mature stags and they can lose as much as 20% of their body weight during the six week rutting period which peaks in mid-October. Fights between stags are common and very often cause serious or fatal injury. The severity of these fights is directly related to the degree of threat, that is, the bigger the stag, the bigger the fight. There are also a number of other activities that are associated with the rut which are: Roaring. This can be either a challenge, a demonstration of size or, after fighting, the reinforcement of status. Barking. Used to reinforce a warning to young stags after they have been chased away. Thrashing and Wiping. The scent marking of a holding area by rubbing antlers and scent glands against the ground and prominent landmarks. Wallowing. The stags immerse themselves in muddy pools, many of which contain urine. Flehmen. The sniffing of areas which hinds have either occupied or urinated upon, often associated with the curling of the upper lip. Mutual Sniffing and Licking. Both hinds and stags spend a considerable amount of time sniffing and licking each
Size: 5380px × 3573px
Location: Inverness-shire, Scottish Highlands, Scotland. United Kingdom.
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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