Dog attacks on deer prompt Royal Parks warning

Nearly 150 incidents of dogs off leads chasing and attacking deer have been recorded over the past 28 months across London's eight royal parks, a charity has said.

Royal Parks, the body that manages the parks, has warned visitors that such behaviour risks serious injury to people, dogs and wildlife.

The charity said owners must keep dogs on leads during deer birthing season which runs until 31 July in Richmond Park and Bushy Park.

It says the measure is intended to reduce the chance of deer being startled at close range, which can quickly escalate into dangerous situations involving protective mothers.

There are 180 Volunteer Rangers across the two parks who engage with visitors and promote the importance of keeping dogs under control.

Deer are described by the charity as "excellent mothers" who are highly protective of their young, hiding newborns in bracken and long grass.

While they are normally wary of dogs, females may chase or strike out if they believe their offspring are threatened.

A Royal Parks spokesperson said the charity has recorded several serious incidents linked to dogs chasing deer, including herd stampedes.

In one case, a stampede knocked a young boy from his bicycle, while another saw a Dobermann chasing red deer across Chestnut Avenue in Richmond Park, causing visitors to scatter.

Paul Richards, the west London park's manager, said: "During birthing season, an off-lead dog chasing a herd could turn a calm moment in the park into a critical encounter, within a heartbeat."

"Don't be the accident waiting to happen," he said, encouraging visitors to ensure their trip is "a day to remember, not an experience to forget".

The charity said the safest option during the birthing season is not to walk dogs in Richmond Park or Bushy Park.

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