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Red deer

Fiadh-ruadh
Cervus elaphus

Red deer originally lived on the woodland edge. Centuries of reduction in forest cover has forced them to adapt to life on the open hill. They move naturally between woodland and moorland. If they can find shelter and food among the trees, they tend to be healthier and larger.

Red deer stag stands amongst snow and heather

What they eat

They graze a wide variety of plants, from grasses and heather to shrubs and trees. Red deer only cause damage to the forest if there are too many of them.

How to see them in the wild

Where you can see them

You’ll find them in most large forests, particularly near the forest edge and in clearings. Kinloch on Skye and Glen Affric have particularly good populations.

The Red Deer Range in Galloway Forest Park has a viewing hide where you can learn more about these majestic animals. 

Three red deer standing together in the rain.

When you can see them

You can see them any time of year, but they spend more time among the trees in autumn and winter. Early morning or in the evening are good times, when the woodland is quiet. You’ll need sharp eyes to spot them. Their russet coat is well camouflaged in the forest shade.

What to look out for

During the rut in September and October you might well hear them as well. Stags call out with throaty roars and groans that echo through the forest. Males stand up to 4.5 feet (135 cm) at the shoulder, females up to 4 feet (120 cm).