Reports of an Injured Deer in Great Ashby

Dear Resident

We’ve received several reports of an “injured” muntjac deer in the Great Ashby area. 

First things first – thank you! We really do appreciate the public looking out for wildlife, whether it’s birds, badgers, or slightly dramatic deer.

However, this particular muntjac has already had a check-up with a specialist wildlife veterinary team and has essentially been given the all-clear. It’s likely had a leg injury in the past which has healed, leaving it with a bit of a limp – think “old sports injury” rather than “emergency situation.”

We know it might look a bit sorry for itself, but rest assured: this deer is living its best wild life and doesn’t need any rescue missions. 

Muntjac deer are an invasive non-native species originally introduced to Bedfordshire in the early 20th Century from China. Because of this, if they’re taken into captivity, the outcome is unfortunately not a happy one. So the best thing we can all do is let nature crack on without interference. 

Thanks again for keeping an eye out. 

Wildlife Crime Officer

Rural Operational Support Team (ROST) 

(Image created by AI)