Richmond Park deer safety warning after families filmed touching wild animals

Richmond Park deer safety has become an urgent concern after visitors were filmed stroking and feeding the park’s 630 wild deer, some of them pushing small children towards bucks with antlers. Photographer Amanda Boardman, who captured the footage, said she had never seen behaviour this dangerous, prompting the Royal Parks team to issue a stark reminder that these are not tame animals. The warning comes during rutting season, when stags are particularly aggressive and have caused serious injuries in previous years.

The Royal Parks has expressed shock at recent visitor behaviour that puts both families and the deer herd at risk.

Why the deer are dangerous right now

The 630 red and fallow deer that roam Richmond Park are completely wild, not park attractions.

During the autumn rutting season, stags become highly territorial and aggressive as they compete for mates. Their antlers can cause serious lacerations, and a charging stag weighs up to 190 kilograms. Paul Richards, the park manager, described the recent footage as deeply irresponsable and highly dangerous, emphasising that deer will defend themselves if they feel cornered or threatened. Even outside rutting season, does with calves are protective and unpredictable. The Royal Parks advises keeping at least 50 metres away at all times, never approaching fawns that appear alone (the mother is usually nearby), and never offering food, which disrupts their natural diet and encourages dangerous proximity.

What looks like a photo opportunity can turn into a medical emergency in seconds, particularly when children are involved.

What happens if you get too close

Richmond Park records multiple deer-related injuries each year, most involving visitors who ignored distance warnings.

Injuries range from bruising and cuts to broken bones and deep goring wounds requiring hospital treatment. Dogs off lead are a particular trigger: deer perceive them as predators and will charge to protect the herd. The park’s bylaws make it an offence to interfere with or disturb the deer, and rangers can issue fixed penalty notices. More seriously, deliberate feeding or touching can habituate deer to human contact, making them bolder and more dangerous to future visitors. The animals also suffer: human food causes digestive problems, and fawns handled by people may be rejected by their mothers.

The safest photograph is taken from a respectful distance with a zoom lens, not a close-up that puts everyone at risk.

What this means for you

If you walk, cycle or spend time in Richmond Park, keep at least 50 metres from any deer and double that distance during rutting season (September through November) and calving season (May through July). Always keep dogs on leads near deer, stay on marked paths when herds are nearby, and teach children that deer are wild animals, not petting-zoo residents. If a deer approaches you, back away slowly without turning your back, and never position yourself between a mother and her young. Report aggressive deer behaviour or injuries to park staff immediately on 0300 061 2200.

The deer are one of Richmond Park’s greatest assets, but only when we respect the distance they need. A few sensible precautions keep both you and the herd safe for years to come.

Frequently asked questions

How close can I safely get to Richmond Park deer?

The Royal Parks advises staying at least 50 metres away from deer at all times. During rutting season (September to November) and calving season (May to July), you should keep an even greater distance as deer are more aggressive and protective during these periods.

What should I do if a deer approaches me in Richmond Park?

Back away slowly and calmly without turning your back on the animal. Do not run, shout, or make sudden movements. Never position yourself between a deer and its young, and give the animal a clear escape route. If a deer continues to approach or shows signs of aggression, move behind a tree or vehicle for protection.

Can I bring my dog to Richmond Park during deer season?

You can bring dogs to Richmond Park year-round, but they must be kept on leads when deer are nearby. Deer perceive dogs as predators and may charge to protect the herd, putting both your dog and you at serious risk. The park’s bylaws require dogs to be under close control at all times.

Is it illegal to feed or touch deer in Richmond Park?

Yes, it is an offence under the park’s bylaws to interfere with or disturb the deer. Park rangers can issue fixed penalty notices for feeding, touching, or harassing the animals. Beyond the legal consequences, feeding deer disrupts their natural diet and can cause serious health problems for the herd.