October represents the very pinnacle of deer stalking in the UK, find out why?
October represents the very pinnacle of deer stalking in the UK. The ‘bellowing’, ‘belching’ and ‘Whistle’ of the UK’s largest wild mammals resonate around the countryside, whilst the hormones that surge through the larger species of deer, become almost palpable as one enters the woods, or steps out onto the open hill.
As the colder weather arrives, leaves begin to rust around the edges, and in homes up and down the country, open fires crackle into life. The sun is lower and the shadows longer. With the fresher mornings attributable to the end of September and October, battle lines are drawn as Bucks and Stags stir into life and become engrossed in the drama of the rut.
Whilst all this is going on there are other subtle changes taking place amongst the smaller deer species. Muntjac are now not only in hard antler, but are also more visible. Roe Buck, who have been absent by virtue of their inactivity over the preceding months, experience a temporary rise of testosterone amongst this year’s Buck kids. As a result, it is not uncommon to see these young bucks sparring amongst each other, in what is commonly recognised amongst stalkers as the ‘False Rut’.
For me what also makes October such a salient time in the stalkers calendar, is that it represents the passing of another summer and the onset of autumn. Furthermore it is succeeded by November, which marks the turning point after which, we can again focus on the females, who characteristically, have been infuriatingly obvious and yet protected. In Scotland stalkers will be able to make a flying start, as the season for stags ends on the 20th October and begins again with the females on the 21st.
On a personal note I shall be making the most of October, with scheduled excursions to the highlands for the final days of the Red Rut. I shall also be making several trips to our more local grounds to guide clients in their pursuit of both Fallow and the highly vocal Sika stag.
Onto this month’s film, we are back once again on County Deer Stalking turf. Where we return the favour and invite Oliver Siddall to try his hand at Roe. We also get the chance to lay hands on the eagerly anticipated L&S bolt rifle from William Evans. If you are considering the purchase a new rifle it is well worth a watch. Click here for our: short-films
In Season in England & Wales: Fallow Buck, Roe Buck, Muntjac Buck & Doe, Sika Stags, Red Stags.
Off Season in England & Wales: Fallow Does, Roe Does, Sika Hinds, Red Hinds, CWD.
In/Off Seasons in Scotland: Roe Buck, Red Stags, Sika Stags, (Until 20th Oct only). Fallow Buck in season throughout October - Roe Does, Fallow Does, Sika Hinds, Red Hinds are in season from the 21st October onward.
(Peter Jones - editor)
