The deer rut
An unforgettable experience in the marvellous setting of the Parc Animalier de Saint-Croix
Sainte-Croix is widely acknowledged as the place to be during deer mating season. We are ranked in the top ten venues for observing a rut by French magazine Le Chasseur Français.
Visit us between Saturday 21 September to Sunday 13 October 2019 for a thorough explanation of the annual ritual. Stages tend to be most virulent at dawn and dusk but at Sainte-Croix – where the animals are used to human presence – it is not unusual to hear belling and observe rutting during the day.
Nature lovers will delight in the morning and evening observation sessions. You can even stay overnight for a full-blown camping experience. We also organise special sessions for photographers.

Morning deer rut observation, from 06:00
Listen avidly as your guide explains one of the most spectacular rituals in the animal kingdom. Your dawn awakening is rewarded with a hearty breakfast.
Sundays from 21 September to 13 October 2019
Deer observation camp 2020 | aged 3–11* | 12 and over |
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Deer rut mornings (also for photographers) | €27,00 | €38,00 |
*not recommended for under 6s Details |