Red Deer

The facts

There are six species of deer found in this country. The famous Red Deer our largest land-mammal. Summer coat is reddish brown to brown, winter coat is brown to grey. No spots present in adult coat. Large, highly branched antlers in the stag (male). Stags 90-190kg, 107-137cm at shoulder. Females (hinds) 63-120kg, up to 107-122cm at shoulder. Deer on the open hill in Scotland are smaller than those in lowland English woodland. The antlers are highly branched. The number of branches increases with age. Up to 16 points in native animals. The angle between the brow tine and the main beam is always more than 90. This is important in distinguishing red deer from the related sika. The life span, exceptionally up to 18 years. Heavy infant mortality at and shortly after birth and during first winter in some Scottish hill populations.

Where do Red Deer live?

Native stock are common in the Scottish Highlands, Dumfrieshire, Lake District, East Anglia and the south-west of England. Feral stock present in the north of England, north Midlands, East Anglia, the New Forest and Sussex. They live within its range in England and southern Scotland occurs in woodlands and forests but can adapt to open moor and hill on Scottish hills and south-west England. They are grazers of grasses, and dwarf shrubs e.g. heather and bilberry. Woody browse, e.g. tree shoots, is taken when other food is limiting e.g. during winter.

Why keep Red Deer under control?

Economic factors. Grazing of tree shoots and agricultural crops puts red deer in conflict with farmers and foresters due to economic damage. Conversely, many country and forest estates can gain substantial revenue from recreational stalking and/or venison production. Red deer are also farmed for their venison and are kept as ornamental park species in the UK. Whether in conflict or used as a resource, red deer populations require careful management to maintain health and quality and ensure a sustainable balance with their environment.

Prevention & Control

A visit by our professional, qualified deer manager can be arranged. The best form of defence is a high stock fence to keep them out. If this is not possible shooting is the only viable option, however strict legislation and safety practices must apply.

Treatment

Contact Paramite Pest Solutions if you suspect you may have a problem and we can advise you on the best course of action. A visit by our professional, qualified deer manager can be arranged. The best form of defence is a high stock fence to keep them out. If this is not possible shooting is the only viable option, however strict legislation and safety practices must apply – a detailed assessment will be required by professional qualified deer manager from Paramite Pest Solutions. If you would like to discuss a deer problem please feel free to call or email us.