Hillwalkers are being encouraged to check online for deer stalking information before setting out during the busiest part of the season.
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) manages the Heading for the Scottish Hills website, which provides details on deer stalking on estates between July and late October.
The website makes it easier for walkers to follow the advice in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code to try to find out where stag stalking is taking place and provides details on who to contact for more information. It also includes routes that are “always okay” and days that stalking takes place on each estate.
The code also encourages walkers to follow reasonable advice from land managers on alternative routes and to avoid crossing land where stalking is taking place.
Fiona Cuninghame, SNH Recreation and Access Officer, said: “This time of year is great for getting outside and enjoying nature, but it’s also a very busy time for land managers. The Heading for the Scottish Hills website is a quick way for hill walkers to check where deer stalking is taking place during the season.
“The site is updated with new information as estates provide it, so if you’re planning a trip and the hills you want to climb aren’t included on the site, it’s always worth taking another look nearer the time.”