A lone deer has set up lodgings in Birmingham city centre.
Instead of lush, green rolling fields or forests, this Muntjac deer found its way into the River Rea, near the Custard Factory.
Photographer Richard Battye, more used to fashion shots than wildlife, managed to snap a few photos of the new inhabitant.
John Mostyn, who works at the office complex, was one of the first people to notice the animal last week.
“It was a rather strange sight to see a deer half a mile away from the Bullring,” he said.
“It seems to like sitting in the sunshine eating grass. My main concern though is that because it is in a culvert, with 12ft high walls, it could be in danger once the heavy winter rains begin.”
Mr Mostyn said he called the RSPCA and was told the deer had evaded capture, but was not in any immediate danger.
Colin Parker, from Birmingham Nature Centre, said that it was not uncommon for deer to travel for several miles, possibly to look for a mate or a new group.
“We often hear reports of single animals or groups of deer who have wandered into Birmingham. They are nocturnal and use what we call green avenues – canals or disused railways – as a guide during the night.
"Once people start moving around and the deer heard the sound of traffic, they could get frightened and would stay put until night-time. They are grazers and browsers and can live off plant foliage and grass.”
