The call of deer

Listening to the call of deer means learning about the wild life of deer and their presence in our forests. It's pretty cool to hear that they're teeming with life.

Not just in Saint-Hubert: bucks can be heard in Viroinval too

Often, when we think about the call of deer, we think of the forest in Saint-Hubert. Rightfully so, as this is the most famous spot. Just between you and me, though, you can also hear the call of deer in the Pays de Chimay forest.

Visit the highlands of Viroinval, south of Treignes or near Romerée during mating season. This period is relatively brief: it lasts around three weeks from the end of September to October.

Deer in Belgium

Listening to the call of deer is wonderful, but listening in a group, accompanied by a guide, is even better.

Firstly, because you get to go in the evening. You don't necessarily see the animals themselves. Deer are wild animals that typically come out at night. Most importantly, you have to be quiet and keep light to a minimum. For this reason, it’s not particularly wise to set out in search of them alone.

Finally, before going to the forest, you often get to attend a class about deer, and see photos. You'll learn a lot about this animal, which don't actually know that well.

Bringing the Ardennes home

The Pays de Chimay forest spans more than 90,000 hectares. Many wild animals live here and circulate between the various territories.

If you want to listen to the call of deer, yo’'ll sometimes need to try several locations, depending on where they're located.

We tested this. Even if the sound is not as melodious as you might imagine, hearing it with your own ears is quite thrilling.

Shall we meet at the end of September?