Deer

Deer are the hoofed ruminant mammals forming the family Cervidae. The two main groups of deer are the Cervinae, including the muntjac, the elk (wapiti), the fallow deer, and the chital; and the Capreolinae, including the reindeer (caribou), the roe deer, and the moose.

Characteristics

Deer are distinguished by their antlers, which, unlike horns, are grown and shed annually. They are typically found in grassland and forest environments.

Species

There are about 60 species of deer. They are native to all continents except Australia and Antarctica. Some of the most well-known species include the red deer, roe deer, white-tailed deer, mule deer, fallow deer, moose, elk, and reindeer.

Behavior

Deer are highly adaptable and are known for their ability to live in close proximity to human activity. They are primarily browsers, feeding on leaves, stems, and buds of trees and shrubs, as well as grasses, legumes, and herbs.

Health and diseases

Deer can be affected by a number of diseases, including chronic wasting disease, bovine tuberculosis, and epizootic hemorrhagic disease.

Human interaction

Deer have significant roles in the mythology of various peoples and are hunted as game. Deer meat, known as venison, is highly nutritious. However, deer can also be a nuisance to gardeners and farmers, and are often involved in vehicle collisions.

See also

• List of deer species
• Deer hunting
• Deer in mythology

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