They may be magestic and appear docile, but an encounter with a wild deer can quickly go badly wrong

Parents have been warned they are risking their children’s lives if they approach deer in Richmond Park.

Footage shows a group of adults and children feeding and trying to stroke the deer over the weekend

Paul Richards, park manager, said: ‘This is deeply irresponsible and can create a serious risk of a tragic accident resulting in life-changing injuries or, in the worst case, a fatal incident.’

There are signs across the park telling people to keep a 50-metre distance from the wild animals – and for good reason:

Mr Richards said: ‘Although they may appear calm, they can react suddenly and aggressively if they feel threatened. Stags can weigh more than 25 stone and run at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, making them highly dangerous if visitors get too close.’

Deer birthing season runs from May 1 to July 31 which can make deer even more unpredictable.

Photographer Amanda Boardman, who shared a video of the latest incident on X said sarcastically: ‘Of course we don’t need park police. I’ve never seen it this bad!’

She was referring to the Parks Police being dissolved in 2025 to plug a £260 million funding gap in the Met Police Budget.

Richmond Council leader Gareth Roberts said it was a ‘huge mistake’ because they helped ensure London’s parks remain safe.

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