SPECIES PROFILE

Name: the red deer (Cervus elaphus) is one of the largest species of deer in the world. It used to be believed that red deer and American elk were the same species however they have now been established as distinct species.

Appearance: red deer typically have reddish-brown coats giving them their name. In the Autumn males grow short, thick manes and large antlers. These antlers can reach over 70 cm and weigh up to a kilogram!

Size: red deer are the fourth-largest species of deer after moose, elk, and sambar deer. Adult males can reach 175 to 200 cm long and weigh between 160 to 240 kg.

Diet: they typically eat grass in summer and woody growth in winter. They are particularly fond of dandelions, clover, and violets.

Did you know: each year during the mating season adult males compete for the attention of females in a rut. Rival stags size each other up and bellow before clashing their antlers together in a test of strength. In order to make themselves look more intimidating, they sometimes cover their antlers with moss, leaves, and bark!

Location: red deer are found across Europe, Asia, and northwestern Africa. They have also been introduced by humans to other areas including Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, Peru, Uruguay, Chile, and Argentina.

Where TO SEE Red deer

According to reports submitted to WildSide, you can see red deer in the following places:

Photo Credit: WildSide team member Chris White