White-tailed Deer
Odocoileus virginianus · Mammal, Vertebrate, Warm-blooded, Wild
Animal Family
Cervidae, order Artiodactyla, class Mammalia
Animal Category
Wild Prey
Breed / Variety
Northern White-tailed Deer
Conservation Status
IUCN Least Concern with a stable or increasing population trend
About This Creature
Medium-sized deer with reddish-brown coats in summer and grayish-brown coats in winter, featuring a distinctive white underside to the tail
Physical Characteristics
Slender legs, white markings on throat, around eyes, and underbelly; males grow antlers seasonally
Behavior & Temperament
Creeuscular, highly adaptable, forms loose social groups, highly alert and agile
Habitat & Diet
Origin Region
Native to North, Central, and South America; introduced elsewhere
Habitat
Forest, Grassland/Savanna, Edge habitats, Suburban; Terrestrial
Diet & Nutrition
Herbivore; consumes leaves, stems, buds, fruits, and agricultural crops
Lifespan & Health
Typically 2 to 3 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivity; preyed upon by wolves, cougars, and coyotes
Special Characteristics
Known for flagging their tail to warn others of danger; excellent runners and jumpers
Ecological Information
Acts as an important prey species and seed disperser, heavily influencing understory vegetation structure
Notes
Vy the dumpster