An Introduction to Red Deer Farming in Britain

The purpose of this study unit is to inform the reader s about farming red deer. Other species such as fallow deer are also farmed In Britain, and there are some similarities with red deer farming. However, the bias within this unit is towards red deer. Where appropriate, the differences between red deer farming and fallow deer farming are indicated.

The authors have tried to provide the reader with an introduction to the industry as it is today (and might be in the future), the animal which is at its centre, and to help the reader make rational decisions about whether this is an enterprise to find out more about. Throughout the unit the authors have tried to identify Key Considerations which one might wish to think about in making one's decisions about deer farming.

The reader will also have the opportunity to ask themselves questions about their growing knowledge as they work through the unit. The authors have also provided places where one can work through some of the complex issues one may need to consider. Towards the end of the unit is a Key Decision framework in which one can identify for oneself the most important issues which one needs to address in reaching one's conclusions.