Deer

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Deer are members of the Cetartiodactyla (sometimes just Artiodactyla) order with other even-toed ungulates such as giraffe, cows, camels, pigs and the dolphins. Globally, 91 species of deer have been described, five of which live wild in Britain: red deer (Cervus elaphus); roe deer (Capreolus capreolus); fallow deer (Dama dama); Japanese sika deer (Cervus nippon); Reeves' muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi); and Chinese water deer (Hydropotes inermis), the latter two having been deliberatley introduced or escaped from captivity. Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) can be found living free-range in a large enclosure in Scotland's Cairngorm mountain range, but these are part of an owned and actively managed herd.

Species

Chinese water deer

Hydropotes inermis

Introduced from the Orient to the midlands, these "vampire deer" are now widespread in East Anglia.

Deer (Overview)

A general overview of the natural history and cultural impact of deer, summarising data on various species.

Fallow deer

Dama dama

Originally from the eastern Mediterranean, Fallow are now a common sight in the English countryside and even cityscapes.

Japanese Sika deer

Cervus nippon

One of three deer species introduced from the Orient, the sika is now widespread in the UK where it poses a threat to the bloodline of native Red deer.

Red deer

Cervus elaphus

Britain's largest land mammal, the Red deer is an icon of the our countryside. Deeply woven in our landscape and culture, it's one of the best-studied deer species.

Reeves’ muntjac deer

Muntiacus reevesi

Introduced from Asia, this border collie-sized deer has proven highly invasive and is the only deer species currently on the EU's invasive species legislation.

Reindeer

Rangifer tarandus

A familiar species from Christmas stories, but one that many don't think about beyond the festive season, despite their fascinating natural history.

Roe deer

Capreolus capreolus

A medium-sized deer familiar to many in Britain & Europe, the Roe suffered near extinction during the 1600s but populations now seem to be recovering.

Questions

How can deer vocalise for so long without getting hoarse?

We don't know for sure, but suspect they produce a lot of mucus to lubricate their vocal chords.

Is it okay for me to feed wildlife?

Generally speaking, feeding appropriate food in appropriate quantities is fine. There can, however, be some unforeseen consequences to supplementary feeding.

What are antlers and why do deer have them?

Antlers are bony appendages, re-grown each year, used in fights for dominance.

What are Chronic Wasting Disease & Tuberculosis and what do they have to do with deer?

CWD and TB are serious contagious diseases that can severely affect deer populations.

Bibliography

To see references, visit the bibliography for this class.

Links