Description
Red deer are the only species of deer on Arran so are genetically very pure. Stags (males) can stand 140cm to the shoulder, Hinds (females) are smaller. Stags grow a new set of antlers every year, casting off the old ones in the early spring. Calves are born in late May or early June and are camouflaged by white spots on their reddish coats- never approach or touch a young deer, they are often left in a secluded spot by their mothers whilst they go and graze.

Where
About 1800 deer live on Arran, mostly in the North of the island. The best views can be had on Lochranza Golf Course especially at dawn or dusk. As with most wildlife if you keep your distance and remain patient you will be amply rewarded with some stunning views.

When
Deer are visible all year. They are most active in the breeding season, the “rut” in early October. The Stags compete for groups of Hinds by roaring and grunting at each other, these already impressive creatures make themselves even more intimidating by rolling in peat to make themselves look bigger and sometimes adorn their antlers with vegetation. If this fails they will fight each other and clash antlers the sound echoing off the hills and giving a sense of the immense power of these majestic animals.