Hi Joe,
This is my first post!!
Sorry it looks like the thread is taking a swerve off course. Unfortunately you mentioned FC. From my long time viewing this forum there is a lot of hating goes on here, and what has been said needs to be taken with a pinch of salt from my experience. Opinions on FC activities seem, in the main, to be born of speculation, prejudice, or both. I'm local to you and have no idea from your OP where your ground is, so for posters to give you the cause to your problem when they aren't even based in the county tells you something. Even the one who is, I would say, is wide of the mark.
Reasons for changing patterns are many and varied and can be due to effects a long way from your ground, especially with reds. My advice to you would be go along to the next local Deer Management Group meeting and talk to other stalkers in your area to hear what their experiences are. The FC rangers should also be there. Talk to them and ask questions, voice your concerns and hear it from the horse's mouth. If you can't wait and are concerned enough contact the office at Grizedale and ask to speak to the ranger covering your area, I'm sure they will be more than happy to talk to you as I have always found them approachable and helpful in the past.
To answer you more directly, I too have noticed less sign of reds locally (south Lakes), compared to last year when they seemed to be almost everywhere in number and in places not normally seen. But they are still about. Mild weather, increasing disturbance (we are in the centre of 'Adventure Capital of Britain'), and short day light hours at this time of year will all be playing a part. Also, I have found, from the few I've shot so far this year, that both red and roe are in excellent condition despite the poor summer. I can't remember seeing so much fat in animals at this time of year before. So basically their need to feed in daylight is much reduced (not to mention winter inappetance).
With regard exact location of your ground, I'd keep it under your hat on the public forum. If it's producing heads like the one in your photos word has it the No.1 local poacher has a 'thing' for big heads, and you don't want him on your ground, or the deer really will disappear!
Regards
Wolfie