ADVICE
UK DEER STALKING SEASONS
One of the unique features of deer stalking in the United Kingdom is that, with six species of wild deer and differing statutory open seasons, opportunities exist to stalk deer throughout the year.
Whether pursuing Roebucks in spring, enjoying the excitement of the Roe Rut during summer, stalking Fallow Bucks in autumn or experiencing traditional Highland Red Stag stalking, there is always a deer season somewhere in the UK.
Understanding statutory open seasons is an essential part of responsible deer management and every deer stalker should ensure they are familiar with the legislation applicable to the country in which they are stalking.
England & Wales
| Species | Males | Females |
|---|---|---|
| Red Deer | 1 August – 30 April | 1 November – 31 March |
| Roe Deer | 1 April – 31 October | 1 November – 31 March |
| Fallow Deer | 1 August – 30 April | 1 November – 31 March |
| Sika Deer | 1 August – 30 April | 1 November – 31 March |
| Chinese Water Deer | 1 November – 31 March | 1 November – 31 March |
| Reeves' Muntjac | No Close Season | No Close Season |
Scotland
| Species | Males | Females |
|---|---|---|
| Red Deer | No Statutory Close Season | 21 October – 15 February |
| Roe Deer | No Statutory Close Season | 21 October – 31 March |
| Fallow Deer | No Statutory Close Season | 21 October – 15 February |
| Sika Deer | No Statutory Close Season | 21 October – 15 February |
Chinese Water Deer and Reeves' Muntjac are not established wild species in Scotland.
