Páirc Náisiúnta Shléibhte Cill Mhantáin
Wicklow National Park

What Is It: Autumn is the mating season for deer, a period known as the Rut. During the rut, stags become more active as they fight for females. On our Rut Watch, National Park staff will have telescopes set up to enable visitors to get a better view and to find out more about our deer.

Dates: This year we are running two Rut Watches:

Rut Watch 1: Sunday 6^th October

Rut Watch 2: Sunday 13^th October

Time: Drop by our telescopes any time between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Location: The footbridge at the most westerly point of the White walking trail (Spinc and Glenealo Valley). This will involve a 90 minute hike from the Upper Lake car park, along the Miners’ Road, and then uphill to the footbridge. Please wear boots and clothes suitable for a mountain hike.

Note that the Spinc boardwalk is currently closed. If participants want to continue on around the White trail, there will be a detour adding an extra 1.2 km to the hike. Alternatively, participants can return the way they came.

Practicalities: This event is free of charge. Booking is not required. For more info, please phone 0404 45425. Dogs: All dogs MUST be kept on a lead throughout the National Park. Visitors wanting to see deer would be advised to leave their pet at home.