Stalking Deer: Equipment and Clothing

	A Sika hind grooms, completely unaware that it's being watched

Here is some advice on equipment and clothing needs for stalking deer. Use it in conjunction with the pages outlining some general principles for Stalking Deer, and the tips on Fieldcraft Skills for Stalking Deer.

For stalking deer, equipment needs are minimal, and amount to a pair of reasonable quality binoculars that will help when initially locating the animals, and again throughout the stalking process. Advice on Choosing Binoculars is here.

Clothing needs for stalking deer are similarly modest, and consist largely of common sense purchases:

Colours. Clothing should be of subdued colour, allowing the watcher to blend in with the landscape. Avoid, for example, brightly coloured jackets - it’s surprising how many times people are seen in the New Forest, equipped with binoculars and clearly intent on watching deer, but wearing bright yellow, blue or red anoraks that significantly reduce the chances of success. Perhaps not surprisingly, greens, browns and appropriately camouflaged patterns are best.

Material. Jackets and trousers made of soft material are far superior to those made of nylon or other synthetic materials – the latter have a horrible tendency to rustle when in use, and make further noise when brushed against vegetation.

Boots. Use of strong, waterproof boots is highly desirable in the New Forest at most times of the year – the ground can be very wet, and it’s sometimes necessary to cross drainage channels and streams. Wellington boots, though, should be avoided, as it’s incredibly difficult to walk quietly in these.

Headgear. A hat or face covering will soften the conspicuous effect of a pale face against a darker background - notice people at a distance in the countryside to see what I mean: it’s often the face that’s most obvious. A peaked cap or brimmed hat will help break up the outline of the face, but better still is green, fine grade netting draped over the face; a balaclava or similar face covering; or use of camouflage paint. Beware, though, the disconcerting effect on passers-by that netting, balaclavas and face paint can have!

Gloves. Dark coloured gloves help cover conspicuously white hands raised with binoculars or camera. Thin, fingerless gloves or gloves with forefinger and thumb cut out are particularly helpful for camera use.