White-tailed Deer
Odocoileus virginianus · Mammal, Vertebrate, Warm-blooded, Wild
Animal Family
Cervidae, order Artiodactyla, class Mammalia
Animal Category
Wild Prey, Game Animal
Breed / Variety
White-tailed deer; Northern variety based on size and seasonal coat
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); population trend is generally increasing, particularly in urban/suburban areas where natural predators are scarce.
About This Creature
Medium-sized ungulate; Reddish-brown in summer, grayish-brown in winter. White fur on the underside, throat, and around the tail. Fawns are born with white spots for camouflage. Adults weigh 100-300 lbs (males larger). Females (does) lack antlers.
Physical Characteristics
Four slender legs with cloven hooves, large ears for acute hearing, laterally placed eyes for wide-angle vision. The namesake white underside of the tail is raised as a warning signal. Four-chambered ruminant stomach for plant digestion. Smooth tan coat on the adult doe and spotted coat on the nursing fawn.
Behavior & Temperament
Crepuscular (active at dawn/dusk); Social structure involves does with fawns and seasonal buck herds. Communication via vocalizations, scent marking, and tail flagging. Does are protective of fawns, who remain stationary and camouflaged when the mother is away. High flight response.
Habitat & Diet
Origin Region
North America, Central America, and South America; introduced to parts of Europe and New Zealand
Habitat
Forest edge, grasslands, wetlands, and suburban areas; Terrestrial locomotion
Diet & Nutrition
Herbivore; browser including leaves, twigs, fruits, acorns, and agricultural crops. Ruminant digestion allows processing of fibrous vegetation. Needs regular access to fresh water.
Lifespan & Health
6-14 years in the wild; up to 20 in captivity. Subject to Chronic Wasting Disease, parasites. Major predators include wolves, cougars, and coyotes; also a common victim of vehicle collisions.
Special Characteristics
Highly adaptable to human environments. Remarkable jumpers (up to 8 feet high). Culturally a symbol of nature and a primary game species. Fawns are nearly scentless to avoid detection by predators.
Ecological Information
Primary consumer; key prey species for large predators. Influence plant community composition through browsing (can cause over-browsing in high densities). Spread seeds through various habitats.