The history of fallow deer in the UK is closely tied to their introduction by humans; their presence then evolving over centuries. Fallow deer (Dama Dama) were first believed to arrive in the UK from the Western Mediterranean during the Romain period. Following the collapse of the Romain empire, these original fallow immigrants became extinct in the United Kingdom. The Normans then re-introduced fallow deer back into Britain from the Eastern Mediterranean during the 11th Century. 

Throughout the medieval and Renaissance periods, fallow deer were highly prized as game animals. They were kept in enclosed deer parks, which were often large estates surrounded by walls or fences. The deer were managed within these parks for hunting, and their populations were carefully controlled. Over time, fallow deer escaped from these enclosed deer parks, leading to naturalized populations in the wild. The adaptability of fallow deer to various habitats allowed them to thrive in the British landscape. Today, fallow deer are an integral part of the British countryside, and their populations are managed to prevent overgrazing and maintain ecological balance.

Fallow deer can have both positive and negative impacts on ecosystems. Their browsing habits can influence vegetation and forest composition, and they may contribute to seed dispersal. However, in some instances, overpopulation can lead to overgrazing and negative effects on vegetation. 

Considered a medium-large species, fully grown adult males are typically between 95-125cm tall at their shoulder, weighing approximately 45-90kg. Females are referred to as ‘does’, with the male of the species called a ‘buck’. The UK’s annual fallow deer ‘rut’ is during October and November; aside from mating time, groups of males and females typically remain apart (unless congregating on agricultural land, or in deer parks). We are fortunate in the UK to have four different coat colours of fallow deer: Common (tan with white spots), Menil (paler than common), Melanistic (black), and White (white or sandy). Fallow deer are majestic to hunt, the bucks having highly desirable palmated antlers. 

Fallow deer are now well-established throughout the UK and a common sight in woodlands, parks, and open landscapes, fallow have become a naturalised species.