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THE unusually tropical temperatures we've been enjoying all week have had a dramatic effect on the deer rut season in Killarney, with stags that would normally be locking antlers at this time of year instead keeping the peace – for the moment.

And a deer rut walk that was to take place in Killarney National Park this Sunday has, as a result, been rescheduled for Sunday, October 9.

“We have been contacted by National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to inform us that due to the unusual high temperatures for this time of the year, that the red deer rut has become subdued and other than occasional roaring, stags that would be normally fighting each other at this time of the year are still in stag herds living happily together with no rutting activity,” said Damien Hannigan of the Wild Deer Association of Ireland.

“Having consulted with our association and NPWS combined with expected bad weather on Sunday, we have decided to reschedule our walk to the following Sunday, October 9, meeting at the same location for 9am. We would like all those attending to experience the true Kerry red deer rut.”

The red deer breeding season, known as the rut, has become a real spectator sport in recent years, stopping photographers and walkers alike in their tracks.

Kerry’s red deer are our last native deer and have continuously existed in the county for over 5,000 years.

The deer rut walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels with families welcome. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come basis email wilddeerireland@gmail.com to book your place. The event is free of charge and open to Wild Deer Association of Ireland members and their families only.

Go to www.wilddeerireland.com to apply to become a member
 

 
Above: Red deer stags captured on camera by Peter O'Toole.