Stalking deer

Whilst strolling in the woods I like to keep one eye out for interesting wildlife. On this occasion I spotted a deer in the distance, close to the woodland margin.

It is a challenge to approach these large mammals without disturbing them.  In this case, the wind was in the right direction and the forest noise hid any small noises that I made walking amongst the trees.

I was surprises how close I could get the these Fallow Deer without them noticing me.  It is a joy to see wild animals doing what they do naturally.  This was a small group of stags - male and female deer tend to group separately when not in rut.

Of course, there is a point when the deer notice that someone is around.  Their behaviour changes - then they are gone.