VISITORS to Tatton Park will be able to see the deer rut until the end of next month.

Park manager Phil Lucas said: “This is a rewarding time of year for our ranger team, who are proud of their management of the deer herds.

“It is during the rutting season that the excellent health and vigour of the herds is most evident. The magnificent sights and sounds of the rut never fail to impress, and it is a favourite time for our visitors too.

“Mature males become vocal and can be heard across the parkland as they attempt to intimidate their rivals. You may hear or even witness the clash of antlers when the inevitable fighting breaks out.

“The previously passive, social stags have transformed into loners that view all others as their enemy. Each one wants to be ‘top dog’, desperate to impress the females and win the right to breed.”

Visitors are asked not to approach or disturb the deer, and can book to go on a ranger-led deer walk, providing the opportunity to see the deer during the rutting season.

Deer walks take place on October 21, 22 and 28, and cost £8. Places are limited and must be pre-booked on 01625 374428.

A deer park since 1290, Tatton is home to more than 400 Red and Fallow deer, who roam freely within its 1,000 acres of woodland.