October is undeniably one of the most gripping months of the year to be deer stalking.
As the autumn rut reaches its climax, the ‘roar’ of the Red stag reverberates around the open hills of Scotland and the characteristic ‘whistle’ of the Sika slices through the stillness of the forest.
The weather in Scotland, though always unpredictable, tends to be somewhat more forgiving than later in the year, and with the open season switching from Stags to Hinds on the 21st October, north of the border there is affordable sport to suit every pocket.
Meanwhile, amidst the woodlands of England and Scotland the ‘belching’ of the Fallow can also be herd as the master buck’s parade proudly around their rutting stands amidst the gently falling, golden leaves of early autumn.
The testosterone that surges through the larger species of deer at this time of year is almost palpable as one enters the woods, or steps out onto the open hill.
Whilst this boisterous display of machismo is going on, more subtle changes take place amongst the smaller deer species. Muntjac become more visible by virtue of the diminishing ground cover and the Roebuck kid’s begin to spar, as they experience their first temporary rise of testosterone, an occurrence that is commonly recognised amongst Roe stalkers as the ‘False Rut’.
For me, with the passing of another summer and the onset of autumn, I experience a slight nostalgia, albeit this is tempered by the more social working hours resulting from the very welcome later sunrise and early dusk.
All things said, October is far and away my favourite time of year and I look forward to the many memorable hunting expeditions to come, along with the Club’s annual trip to the highlands of Scotland at the end of the month.
Onto this month’s film, in which we spend the day with the Capreolus Club’s at their glorious ground in West Sussex during the first of their complimentary member range days. Follow this link to watch: Short Films 'Woodland Stalker Challenge - October 2017
In Season in England & Wales: Fallow Buck, Roebuck, Muntjac Buck & Doe, Sika Stag, Red Stag.
Off Season in England & Wales: Fallow Doe, Roe Doe, Sika Hind, Red Hind, CWD.
In/Off Seasons in Scotland: Roe Buck, Red Stag, Sika Stag, (Until 20th Oct only). Fallow Buck in season throughout October - Roe Doe, Fallow Doe, Sika Hind, Red Hind are in season from the 21st October.
(Peter Jones - editor)
