Richmond Park is a National Nature Reserve and deer park with 630 Red and Fallow deer roaming freely since 1637. The deer have played a major role in the park's history and have shaped the landscape too<br /><br />During the autumn the deer 'rut' takes place. The Red stags and Fallow bucks compete for females - the large males roar, bark and clash antlers in an attempt to fight off rivals and attract as many females as possible.<br /><br />Its an impressive sight and the roaring males, particularly in the early morning light when they are most active, is an experience not to be missed<br /><br />Unfortunately, I was about a week or so later than I would normally visit and that was just long enough to miss the action. It was still great to see the deer in such a beautiful setting, but note to self – early to mid October to turn up next year!