Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
Description
A large ungulate (hoofed animal) with a redish-brown coat.
Behaviour
An animal of woodlands and hills, the species occurs primarily in open habitats in Scotland as over-grazing prevents tree regeneration.
Size
Average male (stag) Red Deer of Europe is 1.2 metres (4 ft) tall, between 2.1 and 2.4 metres (7 to 8 ft) in length from nose to tail, and weighs 295 kilograms (650 lb). Females are much smaller. However, size varies considerably according to availability of food and shelter.
Where to see them
Ben More Coigach. Rahoy Hills. Most upland areas in the north of Scotland.
When to see them
Can be seen all year round, but often most visible in winter months when snow makes them easier to see and adverse weather drives them down from the higher hills.
What they eat
Vegetation
Status
Some areas overpopulated to the detriment of other wildlife.
Distribution
Most of Europe, the Caucasus Mountains region, Asia Minor and parts of western and central Asia. Also the Atlas Mountains region between Algeria and Tunisia in northwestern Africa, being the only species of deer to inhabit Africa. Has been introduced to other areas including New Zealand and Argentina
Threats
Not threatened but are a threat to a range of habitats when they occur in large numbers due to overgrazing. Overpopulation leads to poor condition and can cause starvation, particularly in harsh winter months where woodland shelter is lacking.
Fascinating Facts
Only the stags have antlers which start growing in the spring and are shed each year, usually at the end of winter. Antlers are made of bone which can grow at a rate of 2.5 centimetres (1 in) a day. A soft covering known as velvet helps to protect newly forming antlers in the spring. European red deer antlers are distinctive in being rather straight and rugose, with the fourth and fifth tines forming a "crown" or "cup" in larger males. Any tines in excess of the fourth and fifth tine will grow radially from the "cup".