The Rut of the Stag. More than 40% of Asturias is now categorised as a Nature Reserve which makes the region one of the most suitable places in Spain to experience the Rut of the Stag.
With the onset of Autumn amidst the wonderful change of colours and mild weather you’ll be able to see first hand the majestic Stags in their natural habitat rutting for the affections of the Doe. There is not a better moment to stroll along a meandering path through old oak forestsor hike up through the mountain passes and contemplate this truly stunning natural event. The forest covered mountains glow with reds and browns at this time if year and you’ll feel an unsurpassed closeness to nature as the deer initiate their mating rituals and territorial disputes.
During the times of sunrise and sunset a deep guttural bellowing echoes throughout the valleys and the crack of horns locking will entice you to seek out better views of the rut of the stag. The locations are always situated in biospheres and nature reserves so if you are a nature lover you shouldn’t miss this very exclusive natural event.
The Rut of the stag starts at the end of summer and beginning of autumn, male deer, commonly known as venados or stags, start the mating or rutting season. This normally coincides with the first rains and lower temperatures, which helps awaken the animals‘natural instincts.
This seasonal phenomenon is called berrea, in English rut or bellowing, due to the loud guttural noises the stags make.
Peak hours are at sunrise and sunset, when temperatures fall. It is a truly magical and unforgettable moment when the stags bellow among the holm oaks and cork trees or hidden in the Mediterranean forest.
In the mating season, stags will fight each other using their antlers in order to defend their territory and attract the largest number of females possible. Finally, the strongest male has a larger territory and more does to his name, and will therefore breed more than the others.
At this time of year, the stags are truly magnificent: their antlers are strong and ready to fight off the competition. The does are ready to conceive and eight months later, in spring, a beautiful fawn will be born. It will remain alongside its mother for at least another year.
Hearing the stags’ bellows or the clashing of antlers is an amazing experience that few can forget, especially when set against the backdrop of a beautiful sunrise or peaceful sunset.
The annual rut of the staga takes place in some of the most breathtaking locations Asturias has to offer so you can join one of the many organized packages available throughout Asturias.
If you are not in Asturias and you would like to organize your Autumn weekend break write to us at info@whereisasturias.com and we will prepair the best customized plan for you!