European roe deer
Quick Summary
The European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) is a small, graceful deer native to Eurasia, belonging to the family Cervidae. It is closely related to New World deer and is well-adapted to cold environments, found from northern Europe and Asia into Central Asia and south to Spain.1
Key characteristics include:
* Appearance: Reddish-brown coat in summer, grayish-brown with a white rump patch in winter. Males have short, three-tined antlers.1
* Size: Stands 26–34 inches (66–86 cm) at the shoulder and rarely exceeds 66 pounds (30 kg).1
* Habitat: Adapted to forest edges and thrives in areas with human landscape disturbances.1
* Reproduction: Exhibits delayed implantation, with fertilized eggs remaining inactive until January, leading to fawns being born in late May or early June.1
* Behavior: Known for short bursts of speed and hiding in thickets. When alarmed, it barks. Roe deer are prey for animals like the Eurasian lynx.12
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