Torridon death of NC500 deer Callum sparks ‘horrified’ calls to ‘stop feeding wild animals’
THE death of much-loved Torridon deer Callum, who was put down by the National Trust for Scotland, has sparked an emotional response from his many fans.
Callum was a well-known character to both locals and tourists, and could often be spotted in Torridon’s Beinn Eighe car park.
It is believed that due to being fed the wrong foods by visitors, he lost most of his teeth and, therefore, the ability to forage for himself, reportedly then having to rely on locals feeding him through the winter. It was reported yesterday that Callum had been put down by the National Trust for Scotland.
The news of Callum’s death has sparked strong responses from locals, visitors and animal-lovers, who have shared their thoughts on the Ross-shire Journal Facebook page.
Katy Smith said: “Let’s hope the lesson is learned here. Please do not feed wild animals, enjoy them without killing them.”
Lynn Turner commented: “I was recently horrified when some customers told me they’d fed him marshmallows. R.I.P. Callum.”
Andy Mayhew stated: “If he hadn't been fed by tourists (and locals in winter) he'd have been dead years ago. He was well past his time.”
Ellen Edwards added: “This still won't stop the idiots feeding wild animals inappropriate foods for their Instagram stories.”
In response to comment suggesting Callum should have been taken in by a wildlife centre instead of being put down, Emma Chrisholm said: “Wild animals are meant to be wild unless for education or breeding! Why should he be caged after so many years of living freely? Is that a quality of life for him?”
To which Nicola Sutherland replied: “He wouldn't be fussed, the carpark was his home. And he was used to strangers, so a wildlife park would have been much better than been put down!”
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Joni Phippin commented: “Meanwhile everyone chomps venison with glee. This stag is the same as every stag. Sentient and an individual.”
Yesterday, a National Trust for Scotland spokesperson said: “We are saddened to say that following expert vet advice, Callum the stag, who was often found in the car park at Torridon, has had to be humanely put down. We know that many in the community, and visitors too, will be sorry to hear this. As a conservation charity, we take our responsibilities for animal welfare seriously and the advice was that this was the kindest option.”
