Red deer are classified into several types. The classification of the red deer depends on its habitat. In deciduous forests, deer are called European, in mountainous areas – Caucasian deer. Mountain deer behave like nomads, which is explained by their habitat. And European deer tend to live in one place, so they keep in herds of dozens of individuals.
The external features of both subspecies are a coat without a spotted color and the presence of a light speck under the tail. The main distinguishing feature of red deer from similar species are antlers with several tines, resembling a luxurious crown. The color of the deer is predominantly brown with a golden glow. In winter, the skin takes on a grayish tint. The weight of male deer can reach up to 340 kilograms, and the body length is about 2.5 meters.
What is the function of the red deer antlers?
Deer antlers are weapons. During the mating season, males form groups of several females. The period of reproduction of red deer becomes the struggle of males for victory. Here their huge horns come to the rescue. During the fight, the males collide with their horns to knock down the enemy. Unable to withstand the strength, males of weak complement with small horns are forced to quickly leave the battlefield.
The mating season of red deer
August is the breeding season for red deer. Males are ready for breeding from the age of three. Females mature by the age of one year. Trying to win the attention of the female, the deer demonstrate the strength and beauty of their antlers. During the rutting season, the deer frighten their rivals with a loud roar. The roar can last for more than a month. During the mating season, lively males are able to destroy the ground with their hooves, and damage the bark of trees with their horns. After the tournament, a queue of females forms around the male, the number of which can reach up to twenty representatives. Usually, females give birth to no more than two cubs. Little fawns spend time with their mother until they are 3 years old and then join their herd.
What do red deer eat?
The basis of the diet of red deer is vegetation. Diet may include cereals and legumes. The choice of food depends on the season and habitat. In winter, if the snow is low enough, deer fall for fallen leaves, plant stems and bark of shrubs. Periodically eat the needles of trees. A great food for deer is acorns, which they find under the snow. The summer diet is replacing the winter diet. In warm periods, deer prefer protein foods. Protein helps restore strength and vitamins after winter. Red deer need salt. To restore the salt balance, the deer go to the salt lick. Sometimes they gnaw on the earth, which is rich in minerals and salt.
Methods of protection against predators
The most dangerous predator for the red deer is the wolf. Whole packs of predatory wolves hunt strong and adult deer. A lone wolf is powerless over a deer. For its protection, the deer uses antlers and rather powerful hooves. Deer are often attacked by tigers, lynxes and leopards. The simplest prey for a predator is little deer, unable to repulse the enemy. In search of shelter, deer hide in rocks and take refuge in the water. But in spite of wild animals, man is the main exterminator of red deer.
Human intervention
The hunting craft could not bypass the red deer. Deer meat is considered to be extremely tasty and healthy. And deer antlers – antlers – I use as a trophy and healing systems in China and Korea. Hunting for red deer is prohibited in many places, since since 2014 the species of red deer has been included in the register of farm animals in order to preserve the population and increase their habitat.
Due to its feeding behavior, the red deer was included in the list of dangerous invasive animal species. The activity of the deer interferes with the recovery of rare plant species.
Where are red deer common?
The habitat of red deer is quite large. Various subspecies of red deer are found in Western Europe, Morocco and Algeria. The favorite habitat of deer is in the south of China.
Red deer – video
Deer species with names, photos and descriptions
