Fallow deer (Dama dama)

Fallow deer were probably first introduced in Britain during the Roman period but these early deer went extinct here following the collapse of the Roman Empire. In the 11th Century, deer were once again introduced from the Mediterranean as exotic animals kept in deer parks.

They continue to be kept in parks as today such as those at Magdalen College. Fallow deer are the largest deer found at Wytham as there are no Red deer in the woods. The mating season, or rut, is in October/November so if you are lucky you may hear the stags bellowing, with the longest and deepest call winning the girls.

Although you may not spot deer during the day, there are many signs to look for.

• Deer droppings are oval shaped pellets about 1cm in size.
• Deer tracks in soft ground. Fallow deer hoof prints are around 6-7cm long x 3-4cm wide. Roe deer tracks are smaller.
• The keen of eye may also spot a browse line on vegetation. This is the height at which a deer can reach up to graze.
• Deer Species list