Wildlife and Nature

Woodland Deer

Deer’s Glade is true to its name, with wild deer often seen quietly moving through the site in the early morning light or at dusk. The surrounding area is home to species including roe deer, muntjac and fallow deer, with larger herds often associated with nearby estates such as Gunton Park, where deer have roamed the landscape for generations.

At certain times of year, particularly in autumn during the rutting season, their presence is not only seen but heard. Fallow deer bucks produce deep, echoing groans as they compete for mates, adding a distinctive and atmospheric sound to the surrounding countryside.

The Lake

Our one-acre fishing lake offers a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Home to carp, tench, perch, bream, roach and rudd, some of which grow to an impressive size. It’s ideal for a quiet afternoon by the water, often with ducks drifting across the surface. In summer, pink and white water lilies spread across parts of the lake, adding to its natural character.

The lake also supports a range of wildlife, from water boatmen on the surface to damselflies and dragonflies along the edges in warmer months, making it a calm and well-loved part of the site.

Returning Geese

Across the open green spaces and around the fishing lake, wildlife is a constant presence. Canadian geese return each year in spring, often coming back to the same nesting grounds where they have successfully raised young before. They settle by the water’s edge, raising their goslings through the warmer months before departing again at the end of summer. While the adult geese return year after year, their young will usually go on to find new nesting sites of their own, continuing the cycle elsewhere.

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Birdlife

Birdlife is part of everyday life here, with familiar British species such as blackbirds, blue tits, finches and goldfinches moving through the trees and hedgerows. The sound of blackbirds singing carries across the site, often joined by the distinctive calls of pheasants, while moorhens can be seen moving quietly along the water’s edge. Friendly robins are regular visitors too, often seen hopping nearby, adding to the calm and familiar feel of the surroundings.

Goats & Lambs

Alongside the natural wildlife, Deer’s Glade is also home to a small goat enclosure, where Ragnar, Hugh, Sandy, Daphne and Emma are always a favourite with guests. Friendly and curious by nature, they’re often quick to wander over to greet approaching visitors, especially if they think there might be a treat on offer. Feed is available to buy from the on-site shop, making it easy for children and adults alike to interact with them in a simple, hands-on way.

At certain times of year, we may also care for orphaned lambs from a nearby farm, giving visitors the chance to see them being bottle-fed. A memorable and often unexpected part of staying on site.

The Bug House

At Deer’s Glade, we celebrate every part of nature, even the smallest creatures. Near the entrance, you’ll find our Bug House, or as we like to call it, our Bee and Bug Hotel, carefully designed to provide shelter for insects and mini-beasts. Built with natural materials such as bark, leaves and wood, it creates a safe habitat for a variety of species that play an important role in the environment.

For younger visitors, it’s a great place to explore up close. bring a magnifying glass and see what you can discover tucked away in the different compartments. From beetles and bugs to other tiny creatures, it’s a simple way to connect with nature and learn more about the wildlife that helps the site thrive.

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