The Thrill of Calling Roebucks in The Rut

Peter Jones, director of County Deer Stalking, commented: “For British deerstalkers and managers who want to get involved in the roe rut, my first bit of advice would be to get yourself a roe call. I find the Buttolo the most effective and easiest to use but it’s important to remember - don’t be tempted to start too early. Where I stalk, around Hampshire and the south east of England not starting before the 23rd or 24th July is perfect but the further north you go towards Scotland, the roe rut may not start until August and is often brought on by hot and humid weather, as opposed to a cold snap which typically triggers the rut for other herding species.”

Running for no more than two or three weeks, bucks become more aggressive and patrol their exclusive territories around does. The rutting season is not always an exact science and is open to a lot of speculation.

Fights often spark between roebucks vying for doe territory, with wooing typically involving bucks chasing does for quite some time until she is ready to mate. Bucks will follow or chase the does in circles or figures of eight until the doe stops and stands.

For stalkers, hunting during this season is particularly enjoyable because it is the only time of the year when you can call a roe deer to you. Peter commented: “Sometimes when you call a roe, they come to you like a dog to a whistle. It’s especially amazing because the roe deer are never confined to parks. To experience roe deer, you must witness them in the wild.”

Jason Ward of Thornhill Deer Management offers some of the best stalking in Dorset on 14,000 acres of deep grassy valleys and woodland. Catering for both novice and experienced stalkers, Jason and his team accompany each stalker, to provide the best experience.

Jason commented:  “Stalking during the roe deer rutting season is simply exceptional, as it’s so special to be able to call in a roebuck, who are normally very secretive animals.” Each outing is priced at £85, with trophy fees POA.

For stalkers new to the sport, it’s recommended to start out with a professional stalker, to mentor and teach you the right skills from the off. County Deer Stalking is a premier supplier of stalk outings in the South East of England. If you would like to book a stalk during the rut, or to arrange any other stalk outing visit County Deer Stalking.

The Capreolus Club, run by County Deer Stalking as their premier member’s club, is also holding an event in Hampshire, which teaches people how to call roe during the height of the rut. Full details of this event go to The Capreolus Club.

Frank Stephenson, Director of Sales at GunsOnPegs with Jason Ward of Thornhill Deer Management, Dorset