He is one of the mightiest of creatures - and apparently also one of the most regal.
Other deers quickly scattered when the self-proclaimed King of Richmond Park emerged with a crown of leaves he had created from the bracken.
Photographer Mark Smith, 30, watched as the deer raked the ground in Surrey’s 2,400-acre Royal Park with his antlers - a typical show of strength.
Rutting season is underway and the males are jealously guarding their territory in the hope of attracting a mate.
The stag slowly built up his headress until it was covering his entire head.
Mr Smith, from Islington, London, said: 'He sensed others around and started raking up the ground to scare them off.
'As soon as he came up from the bracken wearing this great headdress, the other males just went running.
'I have been photographing deer for four years and know this happens, but I have never seen anything like this before.'
The deer then threw his head back and roared, another classic way to assert power but also attract females.
Mr Smith, an accountant, had been watching the deer at Richmond since 6am when this happened at around midday.
He estimates the deer is between eight and 10 years old and among the biggest specimens in the park’s 600-strong deer population.
Mr Smith added: 'This was a really deep roar and could be heard from quite a long way away.
'The deer take different strategies in the rutting season. Some pick a spot, whereas others will run around following females, hoping to set up a harem.
'If you’re as big as this guy, you can stay put and the does will migrate to you.'
Mr Smith, a semi-professional photographer, added: 'I love watching the deer.
'It can be quite intimidating when you’re walking through the forest early in the morning and hear a 200 kilogram beast like this roar.
'But it’s thrilling at the same time.'
source: dailymail
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