Deer in Bradgate Park

Deer in Bradgate Park

Deer live in a variety of biomes, ranging from tundra to the tropical rainforest. While often associated with forests, many deer are ecotone species that live in transitional areas between forests and thickets (for cover) and prairie and savanna (open space). The majority of large deer species inhabit temperate mixed deciduous forest, mountain mixed coniferous forest, tropical seasonal/dry forest, and savanna habitats around the world. Clearing open areas within forests to some extent may actually benefit deer populations by exposing the understory and allowing the types of grasses, weeds, and herbs to grow that deer like to eat. Additionally, access to adjacent croplands may also benefit deer. However, adequate forest or brush cover must still be provided for populations to grow and thrive.

We took a walk in Bradgate park, Leicestershire to try out a new camera. The park is an enclosed deer park where the deer can roam free. The path ran along side some ferns, and as we reached it, a we saw a deer disappear into the greenery, with only it’s antlers showing. We moved in line with the deer, hoping it would look up, but only when my wife started making noises with her mouth did we get it’s attention. It looked up, and straight at us, and with full zoom I managed to capture a few pictures before it ran away. I love the colours in this shot, and how the ferns frame the deer’s head.

Copyright Image/source unsplash
Chris Greenhow
Location
Bradgate Park Trust, Newtown Linford, United Kingdom
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