Royal Parks warns dog owners after 149 deer chase incidents in Richmond Park and Bushy Park
Visitors walking dogs in Richmond Park and Bushy Park are being urged to take extra care after The Royal Parks recorded 149 incidents involving dogs chasing or attacking deer over the past 28 months. The warning comes as deer birthing season continues across both parks. Until 31 July, dogs must be kept on leads to help reduce the risk of deer being startled and reacting defensively around their young.
Female deer hide newborn calves in long grass and bracken during their first weeks of life. While deer generally avoid dogs, mothers can become highly protective if they believe their young are under threat.
The warning follows previous concerns raised after Royal Parks recorded a growing number of incidents involving dogs chasing deer across some of London’s most popular green spaces. The latest warnings add to an ongoing discussion about how London’s parks balance public access with the protection of wildlife during sensitive periods of the year.
The Royal Parks says a number of serious incidents have been linked to dogs chasing deer. These include several herd stampedes, one of which knocked a young boy from his bicycle, and an incident involving a Dobermann chasing red deer across Chestnut Avenue, causing visitors to move out of the way.
Across Richmond Park and Bushy Park, 180 Volunteer Rangers are helping to explain the seasonal restrictions and encourage visitors to keep dogs on leads.
Paul Richards, Park Manager at Richmond Park, said: “During birthing season, an off-lead dog chasing a herd could turn a calm moment in the park into a critical encounter, within a heartbeat.”
He added: “Please prevent avoidable accidents. Keep your dog close and on a lead.”
The charity says the safest option during deer birthing season is not to walk dogs in Richmond Park or Bushy Park at all. Owners who choose to do so are advised to stay alert for female deer, avoid long grass and bracken where calves may be concealed, and use wider paths wherever possible.
Visitors are also being reminded not to touch or move newborn deer. Although a calf may appear to be alone, its mother is often nearby and handling the animal could place both people and wildlife at risk.
For more information, visitors can consult official deer safety guidance published by The Royal Parks.
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