Deer on Our Farm: Life Beyond the Postcard

brown and gray deer

As you know our farm isn’t just production - it’s also home to a mix of deer whose roots stretch back to the ancient Moccas Park. It’s amazing to live with these majestic creatures but they’re not just a pretty sight!

Moccas Park: A Legacy of Wilderness
Moccas Park has been a deer haven since the times when knights were the law. This old-school park is like a deer family tree, giving us:

  • Fallow Deer: Spotted coats, impressive antlers, they’re the show-offs.
  • Roe Deer: Smaller, stealthier, and they love to hop through the fields.
  • Muntjac Deer: Tiny but mighty, these guys could win hide and seek championships with their sneaky, underbrush-skulking skills.

Life with Deer: It’s Complicated
Beautiful? Absolutely. But it’s not all serene landscapes and gentle grazing. Here’s the deal:

  • Eating Habits: Crops, flowers, you name it—they’re not picky, and that means trouble – they eat our crops.
  • Land Impact: Their appetites lead to damaged crops and young trees, putting our yields and woodland health at risk.

Keeping Things in Check: The Real Deal
Forget the fairy-tale vibes; this isn’t Bambi - managing deer is serious business. We work with pros to keep the deer drama under control, making sure things don’t get out of hand. Here’s how we do it:

  • Professional Culling: Done by experts who know their deer stuff, ensuring healthy populations and minimal disruption.
  • Sustainability Is Key: Culled deer aren’t wasted; they provide venison that’s lean, mean, and very tasty.

From Field to Fork: Venison’s Journey
Every part of the deer is used. This isn’t just about staying sustainable; it’s about respecting the animal and offering local, top-notch venison. It’s good for the plate and the planet.

Wrap-Up: This Is Country Living
Dealing with deer is part of daily life. Moccas Park’s history gave us a rich natural heritage, but keeping our farm thriving means balancing nature with agriculture. It’s real, it’s raw, and whether you like it or not it’s what true country life is all about.