28
Sept
Studley Royal urges visitors to stay away from rutting deer
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The rangers at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal have urged people to keep their distance from deer in the park.
The rangers at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, near Ripon, said they’ve already seen antlers clashing and hoof stamping as the deer rut is about to begin – and that during this period the deer’s behaviour changes dramatically.
The public have been warned to stay far back from the deer – at least 50 metres – and told that if the animals move closer it is up to you to move away.
Dogs must also be kept on short leads.
Today's statement added:
You may have spotted some of our larger stags spending time in busier areas like the lake side and car park. Although these stags appear calm around people, it is important to remember they are wild animals!
This is their home, and we need your help to ensure they feel safe and undisturbed. In the event of an incident here, we might be forced to euthanise. NO photo is worth this.
Each year about 180,000 people visit the deer park, which is home to about 300 deer.
Entry is free, although visitors have to pay if they want to access Fountains Abbey and Studley water gardens.
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