EXCLUSIVE

By Anna Edwards

anna.edwards@essnmedia.co.uk

Deer in Sanderstead's Kings Wood are being brutally killed by dogs chasing and biting them.

At least three of the beautiful creatures have died from exhaustion or bite wounds by dogs who have been let off their leads by their owners.

Worried members of the Friends of Kings Wood group believe dog walkers do not realise their animals are hunting and killing the deer.

They are urging people to take measures, such as putting muzzles on their pets, to prevent further attacks.

The conservation group's chairman, John Taylor, said: "We don't think it's a malicious thing, we're putting it down to people not thinking and not realising their dogs can do such damage.

"Deer are marvellous creatures, but they are sensitive and cannot cope with the dogs attacking them.

"One deer only had a superficial bite from a dog, but died of exhaustion and stress after being chased by the animal, so it would seem they succumb quite easily.

"Another kid (young roe deer) had severe bite wounds to its hind quarters.

"We want to protect them, and we hope people will think about the consequences of letting their dogs run wild.

"If people take simple preventative measures, like putting a muzzle on their dog or keeping it on the lead, this can be easily avoided and we can all keep appreciating these beautiful animals."

The deer have only in recent years come to live in the 150-acre grounds, from nearby Selsdon Wood.

Mr Taylor added: "We think quite a few deer have come to live in the wood, and we're keen to keep it like that.

"They are magnificent animals, and a lovely addition to the wildlife.

"The vast majority of people like them, and sometimes the deer come up quite close to you.

"I think people will want to keep them here, and if they knew what their dogs were doing would be more responsible.

"One member (of the Friends group) heard a deer's scream from being chased by a dog, but the owner had no idea what was going on, and was whistling and looking for their pet.

"We just want to keep them from being harmed, so hopefully people will now realise what's going on, and make every effort to keep their dogs under control."