Leisure & Tourism

The Deer Herd

The deer herd today roams through approximately 500 acres (200 hectares) of parkland. It dates from Norman times although several references are made to deer in this area during the time of Roman occupation.

The herd, originally exclusively fallow, is of excellent genetic quality with heads to rival any in the British Isles.

In the last 15 years firstly Red deer and then Pere David deer have been introduced and thrive in the park. The Pere David are an endangered species and in the park they are part of a breeding programme under way in conjunction with Whipsnade Safari Park.

The herd at the present time consists of 231 fallow deer, 64 red and 34 Pere David.

Park staff manage the deer herd. Shooting primarily controls the numbers, the venison is then sold directly to the public.

Live sales are used whenever possible, the deer either being caught in nets for large translocations or individuals tranquillised for smaller numbers.