Jesus College has announced the removal and relocation of the wild roe deer which roams its grounds.

In an email sent to students on 12 March, the College’s Domestic Bursar announced that the deer, commonly known as ‘jeer’ or ‘jdeer’ by students, had been removed from the College following reports of aggressive and territorial behaviour, including tracking individuals.

Incidents included the deer stalking individuals on the cricket pitch, and charging at students in Second Court. A previous email warned members of College not to approach the deer and to keep a barrier between themselves and the animal.

The message continued: “If you come across the deer acting aggressively, do not turn your back on it, but back away slowly while maintaining eye contact. It is important to not run as this can trigger a chase response.”

After consulting experts, the College was advised to relocate the animal for its own wellbeing, and the safety of others. The deer was moved on 11 March, under the supervision of vets. The jdeer has since been released into 200 acres of farmland, where Jesus College “hopes it will thrive”.

Rumours have circulated among students and on Camfess that the deer had been euthanised, rather than released into farmland. Varsity understands that, as a result of these rumours, Jesus College Porters had been visited by multiple concerned students asking about the jdeer. These suspicions appear to be unfounded, with the college confirming the deer’s safe relocation.

Clayton, a fourth year at Jesus, said: “Encountering the jdeer on college grounds was an essential part of experiencing the nature that Jesus has to offer. It is a shame that the relocation became necessary, given the College’s responsibility to ensure the safety of students and visitors.”

The student continued: “During the deer’s mating season, I personally witnessed and experienced that it had been acting territorially, but never violent. Indeed we (my friends and I) joked that it may be wanting to mate with me. Unfortunately, we cannot be sure all people will know how to suitably deal with the deer (back away slowly, maintaining passionate eye contact), and, so, the decision was necessary.”

Another member of the College joked that he “expected venison at brunch”.