The red deer stag stalking season runs from 1st July to 20th October. Scotland's access legislation requires estates to advertise where they will be stalking on the day, rather than issuing a blanket ban on walkers over their entire estate for the whole stalking period. We recommend estates participate in the very useful Hillphones service which enables walkers to check where stalking is taking place on a particular day, and plan their routes accordingly.
For the 2011 stalking season, Scottish Natural Heritage is again supporting a pilot web-based system for checking stalking information for hillwalkers and other recreational users. The areas covered by the Heading for the Scottish Hills pilot are those within the Hillphones, Blackmount and Cairngorms areas. For more information, see the Outdoor Access Scotland website.
We recommend that walkers use the website or call the Hillphones service to check what stalking activities are taking place during this busy stalking period.
We continue to monitor deer stalking activities across Scotland. Please let us know if you spot any signs which you feel are not compliant with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
| Extract from Scottish Outdoor Access Code, p82 - Deer stalking on the open hill |
Responsible behaviour by the public
Deer management can take place during many months of the year but the most sensitive time is the stag stalking season (usually from 1 July to 20 October, but with most stalking taking place from August onwards). During this season, you can help to minimise disturbance by taking reasonable steps to find out where stalking is taking place (such as by using the Hillphones service where one is available) and by taking account of advice on alternative routes. Avoid crossing land where stalking is taking place. Stalking does not normally take place on Sundays. Responsible behaviour by land managers
Be aware of where recreational use is likely, such as along paths, popular routes and ridge lines. Tell people about where stalking is taking place by using a Hillphones service or by using signs and information boards (in accordance with this Code) to give on-the-day information on stalking and alternative routes. |
