London – A stag that approached a picnic group in Richmond Park was shot dead by a Royal Parks wildlife officer after it injured a man in his 60s. The incident, which occurred just before 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, has prompted park authorities to reiterate their long‑standing warning against feeding the park’s deer.
What happened
According to the Metropolitan Police, officers were dispatched to the scene after the London Ambulance Service reported a man with chest wounds. The man was taken to hospital where doctors assessed his injuries as non‑life‑changing and non‑life‑threatening. Royal Parks confirmed that the stag was subsequently shot because it was deemed a danger to visitors.
Why the deer were fed
Royal Parks officials said the stag’s behavior suggests it has learned to associate people with food. Over the weekend, videos and images surfaced of visitors feeding deer in nearby Bushy Park, also managed by the charity. The organization called the practice “highly dangerous,” noting that repeated feeding can cause deer to lose their natural wariness and seek out food from people, creating risks for both humans and wildlife.
Official guidance
Signs throughout Richmond and Bushy Parks explicitly instruct visitors not to feed, touch, or approach the 630‑strong herd in Richmond or the 320 deer in Bushy. The parks advise keeping at least 50 metres (164 feet) away from any animal, moving away calmly if a deer approaches, and reporting any unsafe behavior to police.
Historical context
Richmond Park’s deer population dates back to the 17th century when Charles I introduced the animals as part of a royal hunting ground. Today the park spans 3,600 acres (5.6 square miles) and remains a cherished green space for Londoners and tourists alike.
Community response
Local residents expressed concern after the incident, emphasizing the need for responsible park use. The Royal Parks charity urged the public to respect wildlife and follow safety guidelines to prevent future injuries.
Looking ahead
The tragedy serves as a reminder that wildlife in urban settings remains wild. While the parks provide a valuable natural refuge, officials stress that human interaction must be limited to preserve both public safety and the health of the deer herd.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
