Families visiting RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, near Westleton can enjoy one of the Suffolk coast’s most impressive wildlife spectacles, the annual red deer rut, thanks to a newly-opened viewpoint.
RSPB staff and volunteers will set up an information point, telescopes and binoculars on Westleton Heath to watch the stags battle for supremacy and the right to mate with the females. A great way for kids to see wildlife in action.
The rutting red deer event will run on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 3 to 19 October, then daily from 25 October to 2 November.
The viewpoint will be open from 3pm till dusk each day, on Westleton Heath. The viewpoint and nearby car parks will be signposted from the Westleton to Dunwich road. The event is free, and there is no need to book.
RSPB spokesman Ian Barthorpe said, “Many people already enjoy watching Minsmere’s red deer, especially during their annual rut. This free event will give more people the chance to watch these magnificent creatures, experience the sights and sounds of the rut, and learn more about red deer. Minsmere’s red deer herd is one of the largest in England.”
Photograph © Andrew Bennett