Parents have been criticized for allowing their children to interact with 'wild, powerful animals' in a south London park, sparking concerns over a potential 'fatal incident.'
Recent footage shows children and adults crowding deer at Richmond Park, prompting a warning from park officials. The Royal Parks have advised visitors to maintain a safe distance of at least 50 meters from the animals, which can be 'quick to react.'
The park manager expressed deep concern over the footage, stating that it is 'deeply irresponsible' and poses a serious risk of a tragic accident. He emphasized the importance of respecting the animals' space and not approaching them for photos or selfies.
A similar incident in 2018 resulted in a child being seriously injured by a stag in Bushy Park, southwest London. The stag's antlers gored the girl's thigh, requiring air ambulance treatment and hospitalization.
The park manager highlighted the potential danger posed by stags, which can weigh over 25 stone and run at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. He urged visitors to prioritize their safety by giving the deer plenty of space.
A local resident shared footage on social media, expressing her shock and concern over the behavior of some park visitors. She also called for the reintroduction of the Park Police, a unit that was dissolved in 2025 due to budget constraints.
Deer birthing season, which began in May and will last until July 31, can make deer behavior unpredictable. Park officials have warned that visitors may be putting both themselves and the animals at risk if they do not respect the deer's space.
Another incident in 2022 highlighted the importance of following park regulations. A deer that had been fed by visitors at Knole Park, Kent, became aggressive and had to be euthanized after it started pestering other people for food.
The National Trust has confirmed that a similar incident occurred at Knole Park, where a deer was put down after it injured a visitor and displayed aggressive behavior.
