​Fallow deer were first brought to the UK from the western Mediterranean during the Roman period when they were kept within enclosures. Genetic analysis has shown that these Roman fallow deer went extinct, following the collapse of the Roman Empire. It was not until the 11th century that fallow deer were then reintroduced, this time from the eastern Mediterranean. Initially, they were kept in parks as rare 'exotica', but gradually their populations increased and they became an important source of venison.  As the fashion for deer parks declined in the 15th century, many parks fell into disrepair and these medieval escapee deer are the foundation of the free-living population we see in the UK today.

​

It's important to understand that Fallow deer are both expanding their numbers and range causing major damage by browsing of tree shoots and agricultural crops, thus putting them in direct conflict with both farmers and foresters alike. Their ability to reach very high densities can result in high local levels of damage, especially on the estates we manage, resulting in a need to reduce and manage their population through a carefully considered culling process.

​

Our Fallow cull is done through November 1st - March 31st.