What Is the Rutting Season (and Why Is It So Special)?
If you’ve never experienced rutting season before, you’re in for something pretty extraordinary. Every autumn – usually from late September through October – the New Forest’s deer population enters rutting season, also known as the rut or mating season.
This is when the stags (male deer) compete for the attention of the hinds (females), and it’s every bit as dramatic as it sounds. Expect powerful displays of dominance, deep echoing bellows, and sometimes even full-on antler clashing.
It’s nature’s version of a wildlife showdown – ancient, raw, and absolutely fascinating to witness. And the best part? You can watch it all unfold right here in the forest, often just a short walk from your cottage or lodge.
The Stars of the Show: New Forest Deer Species
The New Forest is home to five species of wild deer, but the most commonly spotted are:
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Fallow deer – With their beautiful spotted coats and elegant antlers, these are the ones you’ll most likely see during a walk.
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Red deer – The UK’s largest land mammal. They’re more elusive but definitely the most dramatic during the rut.
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Roe, Sika and Muntjac – Smaller and shyer, but worth watching for if you’re lucky.
Come October, you’ll often hear the distinctive, guttural roars of red deer stags echoing across the forest. It’s honestly a bit surreal – like something out of a nature documentary.
Best Places to See Deer During Rutting Season
While deer roam freely throughout the New Forest, there are a few tried-and-tested spots where you’ve got a better chance of seeing them – especially during the rut.
Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary (Near Lyndhurst)
This is the go-to place for easy, family-friendly deer watching during rutting season. There’s a purpose-built deer viewing platform that overlooks a large open meadow. Rangers sometimes feed the deer here, which encourages them to gather in visible groups. Visit in the early morning or just before sunset when the forest is quiet and the deer are most active.
Matley Wood
A bit more tucked away and usually quieter, Matley Wood is surrounded by peaceful woodland and is a good spot for seeing fallow deer in small herds. Ideal if you’re after a gentle walk and a quieter wildlife experience.
Burley and Picket Post
The open heaths around Burley are a good place to see red deer, especially at dawn. Park near Picket Post and head out onto the heathland with binoculars and a bit of patience. If you’re lucky, you might not just see stags, but hear them roaring in the distance.
Tips for Watching the Rut Respectfully
Watching the rutting season unfold in the forest is a real privilege, but it’s also a time when the animals are on high alert.. If you’re heading out to see deer this autumn, here are a few things to keep in mind:
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Keep your distance – Deer are wild animals, and during the rut, stags can be aggressive. Always stay well back.
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Stay quiet – You’ll see much more (and disturb far less) by staying still and silent.
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Stick to paths – It’s tempting to wander off-track, but staying on marked trails keeps both you and the wildlife safe.
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No flash photography or drones – Sudden lights and loud noises can stress the animals.
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Keep dogs on leads – Even the friendliest dog can spook a deer or cause an accident.
Want to Photograph the Deer?
This is a fantastic time of year for wildlife photography. If you’re keen to capture the moment, here are a few tips:
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Bring a zoom lens – You won’t get close (and you shouldn’t), so a long lens helps you capture the detail from a safe distance.
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Go at golden hour – Early morning or late afternoon gives you the best light and the best chance of seeing wildlife.
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Be patient – The forest rewards those who wait quietly. Listen before you look.
That said, some of the best deer-watching moments don’t make it into a photo — and that’s okay. Sometimes, it’s better to just take it in.
Stay in the Heart of the Action
One of the best things about visiting the New Forest in autumn is that you don’t have to travel far to get close to nature. In fact, many of our cottages and lodges are right next to the very woods and heathlands where deer roam freely.
Imagine waking up to birdsong, stepping outside with a coffee, and spotting a stag in the early morning mist. Or ending the day with a fire, a good book, and the sound of the forest just beyond your window.
The rutting season in the New Forest is one of the most raw, real and unforgettable things you can experience in the UK. It’s wild nature, right on your doorstep — no safari or tour guide needed.
Whether you’re here for a long weekend or a slow week away, October is a fantastic time to visit. You’ll catch the forest at its most alive – with misty mornings, glowing trees, wildlife all around, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
If you’re planning an autumn escape, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to stay. Browse our handpicked properties or get in touch for personalised tips.
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