Stag weekend: Highland Wildlife Park deer rut begins

TENSION and testosterone levels are rising in Scotland’s red deer stags as the annual rut begins in the Highlands. As the weather gets colder, the rut will get more intense.

Amongst the 45-strong herd of red deer at the Highland Wildlife Park, Thor and Snap are battling it out for control of the female deer, known as a harem. According to the Wildlife Park, Thor currently has the edge over arch-rival stag Snap but this could change at any moment.

Thor and Snap have spent the spring and summer months preparing themselves for the rut, ensuring they are in peak condition for the rutting. The velvet coating is shed from their antlers and in Thor’s case, he has begun roaring to warn off any potential competition.

Morag Sellar, head keeper of hoofstock at Highland Wildlife Park, said:

“The rut is the breeding season for the red deer. Now that the weather has turned colder the stags are roaring.

“Each stag is in prime condition and his intention is to breed with every female in the herd. Weather plays a major factor in the rut so a fine frosty snap will set the sparring and roaring off.

“For now it is Thor who is the dominant male. With constant challenges from the other males he can never relax and let down his guard.

“As the rut continues it will be interesting to see who wins the hinds!”