Species of Deer

Scotland has two native deer the red deer and roe deer. The red deer is Scotland’s largest most graceful mammal – one of Scotland’s most iconic images.

Red Deer

Red deer are widely distributed across most of Scotland except Islands and areas of the southern borders. They habitat woodland and moorlands towards the tops of mountains grazing on grasses, heathers. Males also known as a hart, females hinds.

Woodland dwelling red deer are usually larger and more productive than hill dwelling deer due to access to higher quality foods and shelter, with woodland red deer staying in smaller groups, compared to hill dwelling red deer where herds can number in the hundreds.

Red Deer Stag stalking season runs from 1st July, to the 20th October. Followed by the Hind stalking season 21st October to 15th February.

Roe Deer

The smaller roe deer is also found throughout Scotland preferring areas with cover for them to hide though out the day. Roe deer are more selective eaters seeking out specific herbs, shrubs and tree shoots.

Roe bucks (males) are more solitary than the red deer, being very territorial from February – August. Small groups are however seen in the in the winter.

Roe does (females) spend most of the year rearing their young, (fawns) however will drive them away after a year in preparation for the birth of next years fawns. 

Roe Deer Buck stalking season runs from 1st April, to the 20th October. Followed by the Doe stalking season 21st October to 31st March.

Fallow and Sika Deer

Non native fallow and sika deer have also been introduced to Scotland through deliberate releases and escapes from country parks.

Both red and roe deer are thriving in Scotland, however the introduction of Fallow and Sika deer has lead to some cross breading which is a danger to the natural species, therefore it is important that non native species numbers are controlled though hunting.

Hunting Deer (Deer Stalking)

Scottish Deer no longer have any natural predators, therefore it is essential the population is managed though Deer hunting, or ‘stalking’, to limit their negative effect on local ecology and to ensure the population does not out grow food supplies.

Scotland is located in the northern part of the British Isles, with England to the south, North Sea to the East, with Ireland to the West, slit by the Atlantic and Irish sea.

Scotland has a long rich history which will add to the romance and enjoyment of a hunting trip.

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