As a stalking outfitter in the UK, it’s not in my interests to tell you not to go stalking, but hey, integrity is everything! And in June that’s exactly what I am going to advise that you do.
In the deer stalkers calendar June represents a quieter month. Once again as with May the predominant deer species of interest in the UK are Roebuck, however during June there is a slight lull in activity. An 'uneasy standoff' if you will between sparring Roebuck.
Having now asserted their dominance over a territory and with all the rushing around in May, the Roe Buck, who are now sporting ‘foxy red’ summer coats, adopt a holding position during which time they concentrate their efforts on improving body condition and gaining weight ready for the rut, when they will once again be called upon to defend their territory and mating rights.
As a result, many professional stalkers around the Uk will ease off on guided stalking, preferring instead to give the roe some respite before the drama of the rut commences in late July and early August.
As for our smallest species? By June most Muntjac Buck will have cast their antlers. Therefore, for those looking for a trophy Muntjac’ the months of May to July are best avoided. Here at County Deer Stalking we will however continue to stalk Muntjac throughout the year in areas where they are abundant.
If you do venture out be mindful that the hours of darkness at this time of year are fleeting. The summer solstice occurs on the 21st June on which date the sun will rise at 4.42am and set at 9.22 pm meaning that it will be pretty light between around 4am and 10pm, so early morning and even evening stalking represents some pretty unsociable hours, this however is mitigated by the occasional heart stirring sighting of newborn kids and lush green fields and woods that literally seem to hum with contentment.
Next month, it’s the rut!
IN Season in England & Wales: Roebuck, Muntjac Buck & Muntjac Doe.
OFF Season in England & Wales: Roe Doe, Fallow Doe, Fallow Buck, Sika Hind, Sika Stag, Red Hind, Red Stag, CWD Buck & CWD Doe.
IN Season in Scotland: Roebuck, Red Stag, Sika Stag & Fallow Buck.
OFF Season in Scotland: Roe Doe, Fallow Doe, Sika Hind, Red Hind.
(Peter Jones - Editor)
