A beloved Highlands red deer named Callum the Stag has been sadly put down due to significant health concerns. Callum was a well-known figure to tourists frequenting Torridon’s Beinn Eighe car park, often approaching visitors in a friendly manner as they snapped photographs of him against the picturesque backdrop.
The decision to euthanize Callum was made by the National Trust for Scotland (NTS), which manages the area, following advice from veterinary experts. While specific details about Callum’s health issues were not disclosed by NTS, reports from the Ross-shire Journal suggested that improper feeding by visitors contributed to his health decline. This led to the stag losing most of his teeth, impairing his ability to forage effectively.
Expressing their regret over the decision, an NTS spokesperson acknowledged the deep sadness felt by both the local community and visitors who had come to appreciate Callum’s presence over the years. They reiterated NTS’s commitment to animal welfare, emphasizing that euthanasia was recommended as the most humane course of action.
This event has resonated with those familiar with Callum’s friendly interactions and gentle demeanor, highlighting the delicate balance between wildlife conservation and responsible visitor behavior in such natural habitats.
In a related incident back in 2020, tourists were cautioned against offering whisky to other friendly red deer in Glen Coe, amid concerns that such treats could inadvertently harm the animals’ health and behavior. These incidents underscore the importance of respecting wildlife guidelines and preserving the natural behaviors and health of Scotland’s iconic red deer population.