Deer In The UK

We thought that it might be helpful to provide information on the six species of deer found in the United Kingdom.

Deer Open Seasons
Species Sex England/Wales Scotland
Red Stags Aug 1 - April 30 July 1 – Oct 20
Hinds Nov 1 – Mar 31 Oct 21 – Feb 15
Fallow Buck Aug 1 - April 30 Aug 1 - April 30
Doe Nov 1 – Mar 31 Oct 21 – Feb 15
Roe Buck Apr 1 – Oct 31 Apr 1 – Oct 20
Doe Nov 1 – Mar 31 Oct 21 – Mar 31
Sika Stags Aug 1 - April 30 July 1 – Oct 20
Hinds Nov 1 - Mar 31 Oct 21 – Feb 15
Chinese Water Deer* Buck Nov 1 – Mar 31
Doe Nov 1 – Mar 31
Muntjac* Buck None realistic due to breeding cycle
Doe None realistic due to breeding cycle

*These are not statutory close seasons for Chinese water deer & muntjac, but are recommended close seasons.