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 (Odocoileus virginianus borealis)
Conservation Status
Least Concern, population trend is stable or increasing.
About This Creature
Medium-sized deer with reddish-brown coats in summer turning to grayish-brown in winter. Adults typically weigh between 40 to 140 kg with males (bucks) being larger than females (does).
Physical Characteristics
Slender legs, white underside of the tail, large ears, dark muzzle, and prominent branched antlers in males that are shed and regrown annually.
Behavior & Temperament
Generally shy and crepuscular, living in small family groups or herds. Males are solitary or form bachelor groups outside the rut. Defensive mechanisms include fleeing with a characteristic tail flagging.
Habitat & Diet
Origin Region
North America, Central America, and northern South America; introduced to parts of Europe and New Zealand
Habitat
Forest, Grassland/Savanna, Wetland/Marsh, Agricultural; Terrestrial
Diet & Nutrition
Herbivore; feeds on leaves, twigs, fruits, nuts, grass, and agricultural crops. Requires a multi-chambered stomach to digest fibrous plant material.
Lifespan & Health
Lifespan is up to 10 years in the wild, longer in captivity. Predators include wolves, cougars, bears, and humans. Highly adaptable with high reproductive rates.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional senses of smell and hearing, capable of running up to 48 mph and jumping high obstacles. Highly valued as a game animal.
Ecological Information
Acts as an important prey species for large carnivores, shapes plant communities through browsing, and serves as a seed disperser.