Legal seasons
Deer open seasons.
A clear reference to when specified deer may be taken under statutory open-season arrangements in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Important distinction
These are open-season dates.
The table shows periods when a species of deer may be taken under the statutory open season. It does not show close seasons. Other laws, permissions, licences, firearms requirements, welfare duties, local restrictions and landowner arrangements may still apply.
| Species | Sex | England & Wales Open season |
Scotland Open season |
Northern Ireland Open season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red deer | Stags | 1 August – 30 April | Year-round | 1 August – 30 April |
| Red deer | Hinds | 1 November – 31 March | 21 October – 15 February | 1 November – 31 March |
| Sika deer | Stags | 1 August – 30 April | Year-round | 1 August – 30 April |
| Sika deer | Hinds | 1 November – 31 March | 21 October – 15 February | 1 November – 31 March |
| Red/sika hybrids | Stags | 1 August – 30 April | Year-round | 1 August – 30 April |
| Red/sika hybrids | Hinds | 1 November – 31 March | 21 October – 15 February | 1 November – 31 March |
| Fallow deer | Bucks | 1 August – 30 April | Year-round | 1 August – 30 April |
| Fallow deer | Does | 1 November – 31 March | 21 October – 15 February | 1 November – 31 March |
| Roe deer | Bucks | 1 April – 31 October | Year-round | — |
| Roe deer | Does | 1 November – 31 March | 21 October – 31 March | — |
| Chinese water deer | Bucks | 1 November – 31 March | — | — |
| Chinese water deer | Does | 1 November – 31 March | — | — |
Muntjac deer
There is no statutory closed season for muntjac. When culling female muntjac, it is recommended to be selective so as to minimise the risk of leaving dependent young.
Important legal note
From 21 October 2023, the statutory closed season for male deer was removed in Scotland, meaning male deer may be taken year-round there, subject to all other applicable requirements.
This is a general guide only. Always verify the current law and relevant guidance before undertaking deer management.
