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Decapitated stag found at Donabate estate; officials blame 'trophy hunters'

02:05 AM, 11/30/2025
Decapitated stag found at Donabate estate; officials blame 'trophy hunters'

A headless stag was found on Thursday at Newbridge House and Farm in Donabate, County Dublin. Officials believe poachers shot the eight-year-old animal overnight and removed its head to take the antlers as a trophy. Gardaí and wildlife authorities are investigating, and local leaders have condemned the "premeditated" attack.

Staff at Newbridge House and Farm in Donabate, County Dublin, discovered the headless body of an eight-year-old stag on Thursday morning when they went to feed the herd. Conservation officials believe the animal was shot the previous night and its head removed for the antlers.

The stag was part of a herd of 16 Irish red deer kept on the 18th-century estate for about 20 years. It was one of two males in the group.

Officials call it a "brutal wildlife crime"

Damien Hannigan, a spokesman for the Deer Commission, described the incident as a "brutal wildlife crime" and said the evidence indicates the animal was killed solely for its antlers to be kept as a trophy. He added that such an act — entering an estate, shooting and beheading an animal in a public park — is highly unusual.

Authorities have warned taxidermists nationwide to be alert for anyone seeking work on deer heads, though Mr Hannigan said the publicity surrounding the case is likely to make it difficult to sell the trophy.

Investigation and local reaction

Gardaí confirmed they are investigating the reported wildlife crime. Fingal County Council, which manages the parklands, described the killing as "premeditated." Tom O’Leary, the Mayor of Fingal, condemned the act and urged anyone with information to contact the police or the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

"I have visited this park area with my granddaughters, who really enjoyed meeting the stag and deer. A wonderful animal to behold close up. It’s truly shocking that someone would carry out this act," Mr O’Leary said.

Irish red deer are protected under the Wildlife Act 1976, and strict regulations govern culling and the lawful taking of deer. Killing deer without a licence is an offence, and officials say they hope those responsible will be brought to justice.

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Decapitated stag found at Donabate estate; officials blame 'trophy hunters' - CRBC News