Antlers clash as Bradgate Park rut gets into full swing
Nearly eight centuries ago Bradgate Park was enclosed as a deer and hunting park and is home today to herds of majestic Red and Fallow Deer.
From late September through to November the dominant stags form a herd for mating and so the annual rut ensues. The stags will make their presence known by a distinctive roar which can be heard across the whole of the park The dominant male will also have to defend his position as head of the herd from rival males. A full challenge will result in the stags locking antlers with the winner taking charge of the herd.
This set of images of the Red Deer have been produced by the experienced volunteer photographers and were captured at long distance using a powerful telephoto lens.
But if you fancy trying your hand at capturing some snaps, or when visiting Bradgate Park just to see the deer, please remember these are wild animals each weighing more than three times that of a person.
You must be more than 30 meters away at all times. When the deer are in the locality dogs must be kept fully under control and on a lead. The full advice for dog owners can be seen on the Bradgate Park Trust website.
