Viking Sales Manager Andy Norris visited Fearann Eilean Iarmain Estate on the Isle of Skye. A picturesque and remote part of the country, Andy had the privilege of being accompanied by Head Gamekeeper Scott MacKenzie as they went stalking Red Deer.

Red Deer are native to the UK having been in the area since the stone age. In that time, Red Deer were used by Mesolithic man for a variety of purposes. Their meet was eaten, and their skins, bones and antlers were used to make tools. Although they are a native species, it is important that their populations are carefully managed to ensure the health and wellbeing of the herd, animal quality, and ensure sustainable balance with the natural environment.

Red Deer are common in the Scottish Highlands Dumfrieshire, Lake District, East Anglia and the southwest of England and can also be found in the north of England, North Midlands the New Forest and Sussex. The Fearann Eilean Iarmain Estate, located in the south of the Isle of Skye covers 23,000 acres and is home to a large population of Red Deer.

Being accompanied by Scott was essential for Andy’s visit to the Estate. Scott has extensive knowledge of the land he manages and the habits of the deer in the area. Being accompanied by a professional stalker is essential when hunting in an unfamiliar area to ensure a safe and successful hunt.

With Scott’s extensive knowledge, the pair were able to locate Red Deer on the Estate. After a successful stalk Andy and Scott hung and refrigerated the carcass. It was then ready to be butchered before being sold at the Estates Eilean Iarmain hotel - Deer stalking generates over $70million for the Scottish economy, providing employment for many people like Scott who live in remote communities.

For this hunt Andy took with him his Leupold VX-5 HD Rifle Scope, Merkel Helix Speedster and Lapua Mega 150g Soft Nose bullets.

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