Red deer stag in Caledonian Forest, Glen Affric, Scottish Highlands

© Terry Whittaker/Alam

The 'hart' of the Highland. Red deer stag in Glen Affric, Scotland

Striking appearance, strong presence and impressive antlers—meet the red deer, photographed in the ancient forests of Glen Affric, one of Scotland's most beautiful valleys. Found across Europe, Asia and parts of North Africa, this species is Britain's largest land mammal and an integral part of the Caledonian pinewoods. From featuring in cave art found throughout Europe to medieval hunting traditions, red deer have always held a special place in the human imagination. In many parts of the world, their image is synonymous with the wild, free spirit of nature.

Glen Affric, with its lochs, moorlands and mountains, provides the perfect habitat for these magnificent creatures. The area is a national nature reserve, making it a haven for hikers, climbers and nature enthusiasts. Also found here are the Scottish red deer. Slightly smaller than their Western European counterparts, these deer exhibit insular dwarfism, a process where large animals evolve to have smaller bodies over many generations.