As we move into autumn, the fallow deer that live here in Fineshade Wood are reaching the crescendo of their rutting season. Males set up 'stands', scrapes in the ground which become their patch. They then make their mating calls to try to attract females. It has best been described as a long belch! The does move through the wood and select the male they like by the loudness of his belches and how much he smells (the males also give off a very strong scent, noticeable even to humans). How very different from human behaviour!
If you want to try to see or hear the rut, early morning or late evening are the best times. The deer are often hidden away in the wood though and might be tricky to find. Alternatively, why not visit our Date With Nature site at Cannock Chase. They are running deer rut walks on various mornings throughout the season. Find out more by visiting http://www.rspb.org.uk/datewithnature/sites/cannockchase