deer stalking Archives - The British Deer Society

BDS Hot Topic Discussion Panels at The Stalking Show 2025

Join us at the dedicated stage in the Sandylands Centre at The Stalking Show 2025 for two expert-led panels, hosted by BDS Chairman Hugh van Cutsem. These sessions will tackle some of the most challenging issues in deer management today — expect lively debate, fresh insights, and time for audience questions.

A Life Among Deer: Reflections from the Countryside – Part One

Barry Luckhurst’s lifelong connection to the countryside has shaped his deep understanding of deer and wildlife management. In this first instalment of A Life Among Deer, Barry reflects on his early experiences, from growing up surrounded by rural traditions to his first encounters with deer at Mersham Hatch Estate. With a keen eye for detail and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he explores the intricacies of deer behaviour, the impact of weather on wildlife, and the delicate balance of conservation. This article offers a fascinating glimpse into the lessons learned from a lifetime in the field.

The British Deer Society Welcomes Alex Russon, of Hunter Gatherer Cooking as Our Latest Partner

The British Deer Society (BDS) is delighted to announce our new partnership with Hunter Gatherer Cooking (HGC), led by Alex Russon. This collaboration brings together our shared passion for ethical, sustainable food sourcing and responsible deer management, championing a field-to-fork approach that promotes best practices in wild venison production.

Advocating for Deer Welfare Without Activism

The British Deer Society stands out in the animal welfare landscape for its measured, evidence-based approach to promoting deer welfare and sustainable management. Unlike activist-led charities, the BDS focuses on practical solutions, collaboration with stakeholders, and education to address challenges facing deer populations. This article explores how the BDS balances advocacy with science, highlighting its commitment to responsible deer management, including humane culling when necessary, and the importance of maintaining biodiversity. Discover how the BDS fosters constructive dialogue and offers a unique perspective on deer welfare.

Partnership Announcement: British Deer Society and The Stalking Show

Together, with the help of our community and the fantastic help of the BDS Midlands, Wales and The Marches branch volunteers, we will be supporting the co-founders of The Stalking Show, David and Deanne, to make their 2025 event bigger, better and more memorable than ever before all whilst sharing the mission, vision and values of The BDS with the stalking community across the UK.

Life on a Highland Estate in the Post-Close Season Era

BDS member Linda Mellor provides a firsthand account of the recent changes in deer policy and their profound impact on both the deer and the local community. As a resident of a highland estate intimately connected to the land and its traditions, Linda sheds light on the repercussions of the removal of the close season for male deer in Scotland, offering a glimpse into the intricate balance between tradition, wildlife management, and community feeling.

Removal of Male Deer Seasons – Response to BDS Opinion Survey

“Male deer numbers have a lesser impact on overall population growth as it is of course the females that actually produce more deer. Allowing male deer of the larger species to be shot during the female deer open season has historically distracted efforts to control the latter and curb their breeding potential.”

BDS (Sales & Services) Ltd Recreational Deerstalkers Field Sports Liability Insurance

The British Deer Society has taken the decision to discontinue offering its BDS RD Field Sports Public Liability insurance package.

Changes to DSC1 and DSC2

Information has recently been shared relating to changes to DSC1 and DSC2 made by Deer Management Qualifications (DMQ).. These changes come into effect on April the 1st.