Park visitors have been warned to keep well away from deer after footage showed adults and children crowding the animals. The warning from the Royal Parks comes after footage shared on social media over the weekend showed a group of adults and children crowding around and stroking deer in Richmond Park, south-west London.
Deer Are Wild and Powerful Animals
The red and fallow deer are “wild, powerful animals” and visitors should always stay at least 50 metres away, Richmond Park manager Paul Richards stressed. He said: “We are shocked and extremely concerned by footage shared on social media showing a group of adults and young children crowding around deer in Richmond Park, with children seen touching and stroking the animals.”
“This deeply irresponsible and highly dangerous behaviour will cause the deer stress and create a serious risk of a tragic accident resulting in life-changing injuries or, in the worst case, a fatal incident,” Richards added.
Richmond Park: A Haven for Wildlife
Richmond Park covers 2,500 acres and is a haven for wildlife but the deer are “powerful” creatures who can be “quick to react”. Mr Richards said: “Although they may appear calm, they can react suddenly and aggressively if they feel threatened.”
“Stags can weigh more than 25 stone and run at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, making them highly dangerous if visitors get too close.” Parents and carers were urged to keep children “well away from the deer at all times” and to never allow them to approach or interact with the animals.
Safety Advice for Visitors
He added: “Visitors should always stay at least 50 metres away – or further if the deer are moving – and never approach them for photographs or selfies. The deer are one of the park’s most iconic and valued features.”
“But please – keep yourself, your families, and others safe, by giving deer the space they need.”
