Dog walkers in Bushy and Richmond Parks have been warned to stick to the perimeter of the parks following a rise in reports of deer stalking incidents.

The Royal Parks is urging owners to keep their dog on a lead and avoid areas of vegetation, as its officers are currently being called out multiple times per day to help dog owners being tracked by deer protecting their young.

In a social media post dated Saturday 29 May the Parks said: "Wildlife Officers are being called out 3-4 times a day in #RichmondPark & #BushyPark to help dog walkers being shadowed by deer protecting their young.

"As well as keeping them on a lead, please try to stick to the perimeter of the parks and away from areas of dense vegetation."

The charity later added: "Sticking to the perimeter of both Bushy and Richmond parks is the safest course right now, staying away from dense vegetation and anywhere a fawn might be hidden."

Responding to the post, park users shared their stories of recent incidents.

One Twitter commenter said: "Just saw someone being "escorted" by a spooked deer.

"They were walking through the centre of #BushyPark, and the deer resolutely pursued her and her dogs (both on their leads) until she left the park.

"Very unnerving for the person involved, but the deer must have felt threatened."

Another added: "I've been dog walking in Bushy Park for over 20 years & its becoming more frightening each year.

"Maybe the deer are more stressed?

"I won't go near the Diana Fountain side until August & stick to Clapperstyle area but still scared & constantly looking out."

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Dog leads to be compulsory in Bushy and Richmond parks for next three months

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