ROYAL PARKS IS ‘SHOCKED’ AT LATEST DEER-FEEDING INCIDENT IN BUSHY PARK
The Royal Parks today expressed its ‘shock’ over the latest film footage of visitors to Bushy Park mingling with and feeding the male fallow deer.
In a strongly-worded statement, The Royal Parks described the behaviour as ‘highly dangerous’ and their warning follows two similar incidents in Richmond Park.
The Royal Parks spokesperson told Teddington Town: “We are shocked to see the videos and photographs circulating online of park visitors feeding and approaching deer in both Richmond Park and Bushy Park.
“It is highly dangerous behaviour. The deer are wild animals, not pets. They are large, powerful and unpredictable. A red stag can weigh up to 200kg.
“Getting this close, and offering food, puts people at real risk of serious injury.
“Feeding the deer is illegal in all of the Royal Parks. It is harmful to both people and animals. Once deer learn to associate visitors with food they will approach and pester them.
“Our advice is simple. Keep at least 50 metres away, never feed or touch the deer, and if one comes towards you, put all food and packaging out of sight and move away slowly and calmly.
“Richmond Park alone covers 2,500 acres. Our staff and volunteers do a great job of speaking to visitors, and we have signage across the park, but we cannot be everywhere at once.
“We need everyone who visits to take responsibility for their own behaviour and to keep themselves, other visitors and the deer safe.
“If you witness someone putting themselves, others or the deer at risk, please report it to the police.”