Deer are hoofed mammals belonging to the family Cervidae. They are found in a variety of habitats across the world:
Deer are known for their slender bodies, long legs, and distinctive antlers, which are typically found on males and are shed and regrown annually. They are herbivores, primarily feeding on leaves, grasses, and other vegetation. Deer play a crucial role in ecosystems as prey for large predators and as herbivores that help maintain plant communities. Popular species include the white-tailed deer, red deer, and elk.
Almost all male deer grow antlers, but the Chinese water deer is an exception. Antlers grow from pedicels, which are bony structures that support them. Antlers are covered in velvet, which is full of blood vessels and nerves.
Deer have a 310-degree field of vision, which is much wider than the 180-degree field of vision of humans. They also have a higher concentration of rods, which helps them see better in low light.
Deer movement increases throughout October. Their movement locations may change based on food sources and hunting pressure.
Bucks usually shed their antlers in the winter, and regrow them in the spring and summer. If a buck's antlers are shed or broken during warmer seasons, it could be a sign of declining health.
Deer have a great sense of smell to help protect them from predators. They also have ears that can move in the direction of a sound.