What deer can you shoot in July in the UK?
While July might not be the most action-packed month in the deer stalking calendar, it still offers some unique and rewarding opportunities for the committed stalker. As the countryside basks in the height of summer, the long daylight hours, lush greenery and settled weather create ideal conditions to observe and manage certain deer species. However, the laws governing deer hunting in the UK are nuanced and vary not just by species and gender, but also by geographic location.
This blog takes a comprehensive look at what you can legally shoot in the UK during the month of July — whether you’re roaming the rolling hills of Scotland or the wooded estates of southern England.
England & Wales
In England and Wales, July marks the heart of the close season for many deer species. During this time, the emphasis is on protection — particularly of female deer — to ensure healthy breeding and the safe rearing of young. However, for the knowledgeable and legally compliant stalker, a couple of doors remain open.
Roe Buck – A summer stalking favourite, legal to shoot: 1st April – 31st October
The Roe buck is arguably the star of the July stalking scene in England and Wales. As territorial animals, Roe bucks are highly active during the summer months. By July, their antlers are fully grown and cleaned of velvet, and they’re engaged in routine boundary marking and sparring with rivals. This predictable behaviour makes them particularly stalkable for those who know their patch well.
Stalking Roe bucks during this time is not only legal but also plays a vital role in population management. It helps maintain a balanced ecosystem and supports healthy gene distribution across territories.
Whether you’re looking to cull an older buck, reduce pressure on food sources or simply enjoy the beauty of the countryside in summer, July provides a prime window to do so.
Muntjac – Always on the menu, legal to shoot: Year-round, no close season
The Reeves’ Muntjac, a small non-native deer species, presents a different kind of challenge. With no close season and both sexes legal to shoot year-round, Muntjac provides a valuable opportunity for consistent population control.
Due to their high reproductive rate and tendency to browse low vegetation — including sensitive woodland flora — effective Muntjac management is essential. Their elusive, secretive nature and small stature mean that even experienced stalkers must stay alert. But for those up to the challenge, Muntjac stalking in summer is as rewarding as it is important.
What you can’t shoot in July
Red, Sika and Fallow bucks are off-limits in July in England and Wales, as are all hinds and does (female deer of all species). The close season for these animals exists to protect them during pregnancy and rearing.
That said, exceptions do exist. Under Section 7 of the Deer Act 1991, special licences may be granted for out-of-season culling — typically in cases of serious crop damage or road safety concerns. These licences are not issued lightly, and landowners must demonstrate a clear and immediate need.
Scotland
North of the border, the landscape of deer legislation has shifted significantly in recent years. In October 2023, the Scottish Government removed the close season for male deer across all species, opening up year-round stalking for stags. This move, aimed at improving deer management and biodiversity, gives stalkers more control than ever before.
Stags (Red, Sika, Fallow, Hybrids), legal to shoot: Year-round (since Oct 2023)
For those stalking in Scotland, July now offers legal access to Red, Sika and Fallow stags at a time traditionally reserved for observation and planning. This legislative change is particularly useful for estate managers needing to control damage from overgrazing or prepare for the upcoming rut.
It also gives recreational stalkers a valuable opportunity to hone their skills in summer conditions. The long days and clear light make it easier to spot and assess deer, contributing to better culling decisions and overall herd health.
Roe Buck – Legally in season all year
While Roe bucks were already shootable in July under previous regulations, recent changes have expanded their open season to the full year in Scotland. This harmonises Roe buck stalking with the needs of land managers and supports more flexible, responsive population control strategies.
Muntjac – Legal but scarce
Although Muntjac are not widespread in Scotland, they can be legally shot year-round wherever they occur. Efforts are ongoing to limit their spread, as their presence could pose a threat to Scotland’s more delicate woodland ecosystems.
Hinds and Does – Still protected
Despite the liberalisation of male deer laws, all female deer — including Roe, Red, Sika and Fallow hinds/does — remain under protection during the summer months. However, close-season licences may be granted in certain cases, especially where there’s evidence of significant agricultural or forestry damage.
These licences are strictly controlled and usually require input from NatureScot, the government’s nature agency, before being approved.
Other key considerations
Night shooting
Deer may not be shot at night without a special licence. This applies year-round and is governed by strict legal controls to ensure safety and humane practices.
Section 7 and out-of-season licences
In both England and Wales, Section 7 of the Deer Act allows for special licences to be issued when deer are causing serious damage. Similarly, in Scotland, specific licences may be granted to shoot deer out of season, particularly for female deer, though these require careful justification.
July deer shooting summary
Deer Species England & Wales Scotland
Roe Buck ✅ Yes ✅ Yes (year-round)
Muntjac (Both) ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Red/Sika/Fallow Stag ❌ No ✅ Yes (year-round)
Hinds/Does (All) ❌ No (licence only)❌ No (licence only)
While July may not be the busiest month on the deer stalking calendar, it is far from a write-off. For those with a keen eye, patience and proper permissions, it offers meaningful opportunities to contribute to wildlife management and enjoy the British countryside at its most vibrant.
Whether you’re stalking Roe bucks in the beech woods of Sussex or managing Red stags across a Scottish glen, July allows for a more relaxed pace — perfect for refining skills, observing wildlife and connecting with the land.
As always, ensure you are fully compliant with all laws and licensing requirements, and take the time to plan your outings responsibly.
Happy stalking, and stay safe in the field.
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