Doe Deer Water Play Fight

DOE WATER PLAY FIGHT CAUGHT IN ACTION
WITH PIX AND VID
By Shuk Yee Tsang
A rare and dramatic moment unfolded, showcasing two adult female deer engaged in a fierce but light-hearted water fight.
Jade Thomas, 35, from Kingston Upon Thames, UK captured the striking images and video at Bushy Park, London, UK
She has been observing and photographing local wildlife for several years and was on hand to witness this unusual scene.
The footage shows the does rearing up and striking each other with their sharp hooves, sending splashes of water flying.
Although Jade has witnessed many territorial disputes among does on land, she described this as the first time she had seen such a fierce confrontation take place in a lake.
The rare encounter highlights the complex social dynamics of deer and the unexpected moments wildlife photographers can capture when closely observing nature.
Jade said “At this time of year we are used to seeing a lot of action with the stags, but here the friction was between two adult females who took exception to one another.
“I had seen one of the does crossing the lake earlier and was watching her progress when she attempted to enter the harem.
“It was a very dramatic scene. You could really see the fur flying! I think it was a turf war but in the water, which is something I’d never seen before.”
END