Wollaton Park visitors have been urged to keep their distance from deer after a group of people – including children – were seen approaching them ahead of rutting season.
Herds of red and fallow deer roam freely around Wollaton Hall and Deer Park.
Signs advising people to stay at least 50 metres away from the deer are located throughout the park, but a large group of visitors – some of them young children – have been pictured approaching them.
Warnings have again been issued as rutting season approaches. The season runs between September to November, with calving between May and July.
Local resident Julia Tabreham, who regularly walks her dogs at the park, said she witnessed the large group approach and stroke a stag on the afternoon of Thursday (August 8).
She said it looked “distressed” as a man stroked its nose, before encouraging a child to do the same.
“I have a real concern about the welfare of the animals,” she said.
“Idiots approaching them like this, and in this case letting their small child stroke its nose, could either lead to attack or the animal’s behaviour becomes less fearful.
“We ran inside to alert the staff. The staff raced over in their buggy and the group legged it.
“It could have ended dreadfully for all. I just don’t think people realise they put their own and the animal’s life at risk, too.
“We see this thing often I am sad to say.”
Cllr Steve Battlemuch (Lab), who represents Wollaton West on Nottingham City Council, said: “Park staff, Friends of Wollaton Park, and local councillors have all spoken about the need for visitors to exercise caution around deer in the park.
“There are signs up about the need to keep 50 metres distance and certainly not to feed or stroke them. Someone could get seriously injured if they do.
“Enjoy the views of deer but keep your distance.”
Wollaton Hall and Deer Park issued a warning in a statement on its Facebook page: “If you’re enjoying a picnic and a curious deer comes a little too close, please follow these simple steps: Cover your food and close any bags, leave the food behind and move back to a safe distance, wait for the deer to move on before returning to your spot.
“Do not feed the deer. This can cause unnatural and aggressive behaviour.
“Deer can be bold and unpredictable around food, but it’s important to keep your distance – for their safety and yours.
“If a deer becomes persistent or causes concern, please call the main office on 0115 876 3100 and a ranger will be called to attend. Or you can report the issue in any of the on-site cafés or shops.
“Let’s work together to respect wildlife and keep our parks safe for everyone.”
Owners of dogs seen agitating deer can be fined £1,000.