Rotwild

Description

Red deer (Rotwild) have been part of Bayern-Park since the earliest days of the Vilstaler Wildpark, the wildlife enclosure that preceded the current park. The animals are highly adaptable, capable of thriving in both dry and wet habitats, and are strictly herbivorous. In the wild, a red deer consumes between 8 and 20 kg of green fodder per day, feeding on grasses, herbs, leaves, bark, and acorns. At Bayern-Park, the diet shifts with the seasons: grass dominates in summer, while hay and silage are provided during winter. Adult males reach a body weight of between 150 and 200 kg and carry antlers that can weigh up to 15 kg. The antlers are shed annually between February and April, with the exact timing depending on the animal's age. Females carry no antlers and are referred to as Kahlwild. The species lives in social herds that, outside the breeding season, are single-sex. The rut begins in early September, and after a gestation period of approximately 236 days, young are born between May and June. Life expectancy ranges from 12 to 18 years. The herd at Bayern-Park is known to be curious and sociable. The animals spend much of their time resting and observing their surroundings, and have a particular habit of watching visitors on the nearby white-water rafting attraction.