Red Stag

Cervus Elaphus Linnaeus

The European red stag is closely related to the North American elk. The largest trophies are usually taken on game ranches and private preserves, which are set up to provide the hunter with the best possible hunting experience. To bring down a red stag of moderate size requires a good, medium-size rifle along with premium projectiles for consistent success.

A trophy stag is a splendid and majestic animal. It usually carries 12 or more points. A few exceptional trophies may have up to 30 points. As a stag matures, his antlers get heavier and more complex, until he reaches his prime. Past his prime, the stag's antler begin to reduce in size again.

In most populations, males and females live in separate groups for much of the year. Males return to the female group territories in autumn to breed, competing noisily to claim and control a harem of breeding females. Although stags are silent for most of the year, they do roar noisily during the breeding season - sometimes at a rate of up to ten roars per minute! Other ritualized displays include violent clashing of antlers and dramatic pushing contests.

The meat is similar to deer meat, and you can cook it like beef. It has a delicious flavor and juicier texture than most venisons. For many hunters, it's their favorite wild game meat. And like all game, it is low in fat and cholesterol.