‘Samhain’ Autumn Gathering will take place from October 17 until October 19 in Killarney this year.

It is a series of free events being organised by the Conservation Rangers and NPWS.

Rutting season is now underway, and this is a popular time for photographers who travel from all around Ireland to capture the renowned Native Irish Deer that reside in Killarney National Park.

On Friday, there will be a talk on ‘The Chough’, an insight into the life of a rare bird, by Clare Heardmanm, NPWS Ecologist in the Conservation Measures Unit. It will take place at Killarney House auditorium at 7.30pm, and bookings are made through Eventbrite.

The very popular ‘Morning Deer Walks’ with Conservation Ranger Padruig O’Sullivan are planned for Saturday October 17 and Sunday October 18.

The meeting point for these is Deenagh Cottage just inside the front gate of the Demesne.

It starts at 7.00am. Padruig’s informative walks are always very engaging, no bookings are required.

The distinctive bellowing and fierce rutting behaviour has fascinated Killarney for a long time.

The rich colours of Autumn, the morning light and shadows of evening light make the park so spectacular at this time of year.

On Saturday evening, a talk ‘Toads in Trouble’ will focus on protecting Ireland’s endangered Natterjack Toads by Brid Calhoun, NPWS Conservation Ranger.

‘Nocturnal Ramble’ will take place on Sunday evening at 6pm and this event will include walking through woodlands in the dark. Booking will be online closer to the event.