Discover Islay Red Deer, the monarch of the glen.
'Mios ro gach ràith a choltas'
A month before each season, its appearance comes
The largest UK mammal, the Red Deer in his natural environment is truly impressive. Seen standing atop a crag, the antlers sihouetted against the silver skies of Islay, he truly is the Monarch of the Glen. The females generally produce one calf, growing inside her for up to 34 weeks. Once born she weans the calf at 9-12 months. The rut begins with males roaring to frighten off the smaller rivals, only then do the remaining males size each other up and lock antlers in a pushing match, the winner of which gains exclusive rights to the females in the group. The male antlers are shed in early spring and can be picked up for souvenirs.
