Red deer

A red deer hind crossed the lane directly in front of our car at about 9.30 pm yesterday evening.   The lane is narrow and has 6' high, very wide hedgebanks there, and fields beyond on either side.  The deer appeared, descending, from the right, took maybe one stride and took off almost vertically to clear the left hand hedge.  A second earlier and we would have collided - it doesn't bear thinking about.  She sprang so effortlessly; she was very big; it was like seeing a 12 hand pony suddenly appearing in front of us.  The overgrowth of summer obscures our view and encourages the wildlife close; it's a dangerous time for the deer and for us.  We keep our speed down but must be vigilant - bikers beware - your louder engine might help.