Every autumn, between mid-September and mid-October, the region’s forests come to life as night falls. It’s mating season for stags and does. The stags will bellow and sometimes fight to mark their territory and conquer the does in order to reproduce. To mark the occasion, guided outings have been organised for you to discover this unique courtship.
Despite their widespread presence, particularly throughout the various forest massifs, Cervidae are usually very wary and remain well hidden. It is only at this time of year that we really notice their presence.
The stags will bellow and sometimes fight to mark their territory and conquer the does in order to reproduce.
The bellow is a very powerful, low-pitched cry that echoes through the woods. It is both fascinating and intriguing to listen to these wild animals. When you hear bellowing, it means that the king of the forest is not far away, so you need to hone your ears and open your eyes wide to try and catch a glimpse of him.
Stags and does
The bellowing of the stag is highly popular with local residents and wildlife lovers in general, so guided outings are organised by professionals.
The guides will give you all the information you need about Cervidae and all the explanations about this fascinating period when stags bellow. Night-time outings are organised to catch a glimpse of the animals and listen to their courtship.
All events must be booked in advance. You can find the programme in the diary of events here. Make sure you book well in advance!
Watching the wildlife
Although it can be easy to spot stags and does during the bellowing season, it is important to respect these animals and avoid disturbing them, at the risk of seeing them disappear from our forests in search of peace and quiet.
Stags and does are discreet and elusive during the rest of the year, but at this time of year, stags can become dangerous if you try to get too close to them. So here are a few recommendations:
Do not try to get close to stags or does on foot
Stay in your car to listen to the bellowing
Do not shine your car lights at animals
Do not make any noise to avoid disturbing the animals
Doe at the edge of a footpath
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