This weekend presented the perfect opportunity to enjoy some sunshine and a brisk walk around the grounds of Blenheim Palace. To my surprise, hiding behind a tree by the bridge was a baby Munctac. These non-native species were brought from China to Woburn Park in Bedfordshire in the early 20th century. They are now widespread and increasing in number and range. Deliberate releases and escapes from Woburn, Northamptonshire, and Warwickshire led to the establishment of feral populations.
Muntjac do not have a defined breeding season but instead, they breed all year round and the does can conceive again within days of giving birth. This fawn was under 2 months old, the spots were clearly visible and it was so tiny!
Needless to say, I'm glad I didn’t leave the house without my camera this weekend and i’d be lucky to see a Muntjac fawn again. This little baby was both terrified and curious with our presence. As hard as it was, we had to leave because mum was probably at the top of the hill waiting for us to leave the area.
The image was featured on BBC England’s Big Picture and in The Stroud News & Journal.