Fallow Deer - Holkham Hall, Norfolk

It is the rutting season and I had not had the opportunity before to witness the aggression of duelling Bucks, and the apparent indifference shown by the Does.   At Holkham Hall it is possible to wander around the Park at will and even take dogs on leads.   I was surprised how tolerant of humans and dogs the Deer are, so it was possible to get unexpectedly close to the Deer, lying down, grazing or rutting.

Two Bucks are prepared to rush at one another impetuously and lock antlers either on the ground or in the air - how and which one decides the position for each of the tussles remains a mystery!   The encounter between these two Bucks must have lasted 20 minutes and each must have been exhausted by the end of it.    There didn't appear to be a top Buck or a vanquished - that might be why they each started vocalising.............