OXFORD — Police are warning residents to keep their distance from a local buck that’s been showing up around town — and even walked up to two officers on duty.
“Oxford has a pretty popular buck that seems to not fear human contact,” the Oxford Police Department wrote in a social media post. “He even approached two of our officers while they were on a call. This is a reminder it is rutting season and please give this buck his space.”
Rutting season — the annual deer mating period — typically runs from late October through early December in Massachusetts, when male deer experience a surge in testosterone that fuels aggression, boldness, and territorial behavior. During this time, bucks may wander into neighborhoods, chase rivals, and show little fear of humans.
“Their focus on mating can make them less aware of their surroundings, leading them to become bold and territorial even near homes and parks,” the Oxford Police Department said in its post, describing the unpredictable behavior commonly seen in bucks during rutting season.
Wildlife experts say rutting season brings a higher risk of deer-related car accidents, as bucks chase does into roadways and become less cautious around traffic. In addition, bucks focused on mating can become unpredictable and dangerous, especially at dawn and dusk. Pets, particularly dogs, may also be viewed as rivals.
The department advised residents to:
- Stay at least 100 feet away from deer
- Never approach or feed wild animals
- Keep pets leashed or indoors
- Back away calmly if a deer acts aggressively
