Sika Deer Jumping Sideways!

[tigger]

I went to Arne nature reserve the other day, late in the afternoon. Most people had gone and the Sika deer were coming out of the woods. I managed to film some, and actually watched as one of them jumped sideways. Now, I understand how they can jump forwards... but sideways? Anyway, he looked a bit embarrassed and then bounded off with his mates.... I managed to film it here, if anyone would like to have a look.

It got me wondering if anyone else had ever seen deer doing this?

Thanks. Jane

[tufftie]

LOL Didn't look real!!! How did it do it? Haven't been to Arne for years!

[Deer Stalker]

Looks possibly like one of this years calves. Even at six months they can still jump all over the place.

[naturelover]

what a catch on film,i bet thats a one off ha ha.

[Rob T]

Jane thats a wonderfull piece of film, the more I watch deer the more odd things they seem to do.
Im no expert but have spent many hours waiting for and watching them, I have seen a young fallow doze off whilst standing for a split second and over compensate on wakening threw her head back up so hard her feet came off the ground, maybe yours was falling to the left before she realised.
Would also account for the startled look on her face.
Bet your pleased you had your camera with you. Well done.

Regards

Rob

[tigger]

Thanks for all your comments. I was so surprised when he "jumped".

That's really interesting Rob T... I wonder if he had dropped off... that would account for the startled look and Yes, I was very glad I had the camera! (it makes a change!)

Thanks. Jane

[Kayleigh]

When out riding my horse she used to shy and jump sideways if she got spooked by something. With the startled look and the way they all took off it looks to me like something frightened the deer. They, like horses are flight animals.

[Brian Phipps]

I`ve seen Roe Deer jump sideways before but only when they have been startled! never a Sika though!

Great interesting footage.

I`ll keep my eyes peeled for more sideways action as I`m going to Arne tomorrow for the day photographing.

Cheers
Brian

[tigger]

Hi Brian. They didn't seem to be very startled... they knew I was there, and just decided to head back into the wood. I can't explain the sudden jump.

If you are going to Arne I saw this group of sika at the field (just next to the carpark) on the way to the bird watching hides. As you leave the car park you walk through a closely cropped field with wood down to the left. They were just on the edge of this field.

In fact they are everywhere at Arne... I've even seen them eating birdseed next to the feeders in the carpark (with people 5ft away from them!). Anyway, have a great day! I did see a gorgeous barn owl hunting over the reed beds... that really made my day.

[JeffH]

What a superb bit of film Jane.

Jeff

[tigger]

Thanks Jeff. Bit wobbley but at least I caught the action, I guess.