A new competition is encouraging the public to capture photographs of one of the country’s most loved animals.
In recent years, more and more deer have moved into urban areas as new green spaces and woodlands have been created.
In recognition of this, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has decided to launch the Urban Deer Photography Competition, asking members of the public to submit their own images of deer in, or close to, towns and cities.
There are two types of the animal native to Scotland – red deer and roe deer.
The red deer is the largest land-dwelling wild animal in Scotland, and is recognised as one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles the country has to offer.
Roe deer, on the other hand, are smaller, more delicate creatures and are found throughout mainland Scotland, wherever there is cover they can use to hide by day.
They have become increasingly prevalent near towns and cities, with some even living close to the centre of Glasgow.
Fallow and sika deer have also been introduced to Scotland through deliberate releases and escapes from country parks.
Anton Watson of SNH, who is organising the photo contest, said: “We’ve seen wild deer in many places in towns and cities recently – from parks to gardens to cemeteries and roundabouts.
“In fact, if you’re not aware of deer in your local park, you may want to take a walk and see what you’ll discover, particularly at dusk or dawn.
“Roe deer are found in every 10 kilometre square (3.8 miles) of mainland Scotland, so you’re never too far from deer – you just need to keep your eyes open and your camera ready.”
The winner of the free contest will get to accompany the Wildlife Operations Unit on a helicopter deer count over part of a red deer range.
The runner-up will be given a day of photography tuition from SNH photographer, Lorne Gill.
The closing date for entries is March 1.