European fallow deer
The European fallow deer (Dama dama) is a medium-sized deer that is native to Europe and Asia Minor. It is a member of the Cervidae family, which also includes red deer, roe deer, and moose. European fallow deer are known for their beautiful coat, which can be a variety of colors, including brown, fawn, and white.
Description
European fallow deer are about 100 to 140 centimeters tall at the shoulder and weigh between 30 and 100 kilograms. Males are larger than females. They have a long, slender body with a small head and a short neck. Their ears are long and pointed, and their eyes are large and dark. European fallow deer have a coat that can be a variety of colors, including brown, fawn, and white. Males have broad, palmate antlers that are shed each year.
Distribution and habitat
European fallow deer are native to Europe and Asia Minor. They were introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. European fallow deer live in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and grasslands. They are most common in areas with plenty of food and water.
Diet
European fallow deer are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of grasses, leaves, and fruits. They will also eat bark, buds, and twigs. European fallow deer are ruminants, which means that they have a four-chambered stomach that helps them to digest their food.
Behavior
European fallow deer are social animals and they live in herds. Herds can range in size from a few individuals to over 100 individuals. The herd is led by a dominant male, and the females and young follow him. European fallow deer are very vocal animals and they make a variety of sounds, including grunts, snorts, and bleats.
Reproduction
European fallow deer breed once a year. The breeding season is in the fall. Females give birth to a single fawn after a gestation period of about 6 months. Fawns are born with their eyes open and they are able to stand within minutes of birth. They are nursed by their mother for about 6 months.
Threats and conservation
European fallow deer are not currently considered to be endangered. However, they are threatened by a number of factors, including habitat loss, hunting, and conflict with humans.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect European fallow deer. These efforts include creating protected areas, reducing hunting, and educating people about the importance of European fallow deer. With continued conservation efforts, European fallow deer can be protected from extinction.
Here are some additional facts about European fallow deer:
European fallow deer are the most common deer in Europe.
European fallow deer are very adaptable animals and they can live in a variety of habitats.
European fallow deer are popular game animals and they are hunted for their meat and antlers.
European fallow deer are also popular as pets and they are often kept in captivity.
I hope you enjoyed learning about European fallow deer!
