The Rut is a term used to describe the behaviour of deer during the breeding season. The rut marks a time of year, mainly autumn season, when deer compete to mate with females and defend or reclaim territories. From September to October there is a bellowing sound that pierces through the silence of the mountain.  The wallowing cries and screams, the sound of locking antlers makes this event one of nature´s seasonal spectacles a must watch.

The best time of day to see this spectacle is at dawn or dusk, when the deer are most active. Always keep your distance by using binoculars for close up viewing as deer can be unpredictable. So worthwhile for a unique and unforgettable experience.

The municipalities of Lousã, Gois, Miranda do Corvo and Penela belong to the district of Coimbra as Castanheira de Pêra and Figueiró dos Vinhos belong to Leiria district – All of these are perfect locations for deer watching in their natural habitat. Red deer or cervus elaphus, as know by scientific name- are frequently seen throughout the year although, at one time, red deer were rare in some parts of Europe, including Portugal. Reintroduction began in the 90´s which resulted in a positive increase of red deer populations.