Deer roaring in TouraineDeer roaring in Touraine
©Deer roaring in Touraine|Philippe Jarry

The bellowing of the stag the call of nature!

Dive into the heart of the wilderness and enjoy an unforgettable experience as you witness the stag bellowing in Touraine. Every year, from mid-September to mid-October, the forests of Touraine resound with the powerful calls of the king of the forest, marking the start of the mating season.

Why watch a stag bellow?

The stag’s bellow is a fascinating natural spectacle where the elaphe stag, majestic and imposing, sounds its deep cry to attract females and assert its dominance. This is a unique opportunity for you to discover the local wildlife in its natural habitat and observe authentic animal behaviour.

Le brame du cerf- Loches Touraine Châteaux de la Loire
Le brame du cerf- Loches Touraine Châteaux de la Loire
Le brame du cerf- Loches Touraine Châteaux de la Loire

Take part in guided outings

To fully enjoy this experience, join outings accompanied by passionate experts who will guide you as closely as possible while respecting the animals’ peace and quiet. Here are just a few of the events scheduled for the autumn (dates 2025 to be announced):

  • Nightlife and stag bellowing: in the Bois de la Moutonnerie in Amboise
  • Rando Brame: in the Espace Naturel Sensible du Bois des Rouchoux in Semblançay
  • Loves of the stag: also in the Bois des Rouchoux
    Listening to the stag bellow: departure from Parc de la Gloriette in Tours
  • Listening to the lord of the forest: in Rillé.
  • Deer roar weekend with Val de Loire Écotourisme
    Deer roar evening: at the Beaumarchais Reserve in Autrèche
  • Listening to the elaphe deer roar: at Saint-Benoît-la-Forêt

When is the stag's slabbing season?

Come and observe these majestic animals: it’s a rare privilege, reserved for those who venture into the woods at the right time, and who respect the tranquillity of the forest at this pivotal period.

The mating season for large cervids heralds the arrival of autumn; to be more precise, the slab generally begins in mid-September. It lasts about a month, until mid-October. During this time, the hinds are fertile for no more than 24 hours, making the stags particularly vigilant and active.

Advice for a successful experience

Get ready:

Wear dark, quiet clothes, hiking boots and avoid perfumes.

Be discreet

silence is essential to avoid disturbing the animals.

Respect nature

don’t get too close and stay on the marked paths.

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