The Royal Parks have issued a stark warning to the public, urging them to refrain from feeding the deer in Richmond Park and Bushy Park. This comes as a response to recent footage showing people, including children, getting dangerously close to the wild deer and offering them food. The Royal Parks spokesman expressed shock at this behavior, emphasizing the potential risks involved. With a red stag weighing up to 200kg, approaching them and offering food can lead to serious injury. The advice is clear: keep at least 50 meters away and never feed the deer. This isn't just about personal safety; it's also about the well-being of the deer themselves. Feeding them can lead to dependency and aggressive behavior, as the deer may associate humans with food. This isn't the first time such a warning has been issued. Last month, the Richmond Park manager, Paul Richards, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the deer's wild and powerful nature. The key message is consistent: treat the deer with respect and maintain a safe distance. While it might be tempting to interact with these majestic creatures, it's crucial to remember that they are wild animals, not pets. By heeding these warnings, we can ensure the safety of both the public and the deer, preserving the natural balance of these beautiful parks.
