The red deer is a large ungulate with reddish-brown fur during summer, becoming darker in winter, and a distinctive rump patch; males (stags) carry impressive branched antlers that can reach widths of up to 1.2 m. Females are smaller, without antlers, having a robust body adapted for running and endurance in various habitats, from temperate forests to mountain areas and alpine meadows.
Habits
Red deer are social animals that gather in variable herds, especially in winter, and are primarily active at dusk and dawn (crepuscular); they feed by grazing and ruminating plant matter, while during the mating season (rut), males become territorial and defend their harems through displays of strength and deep vocalizations.
Reproduction
Females reach sexual maturity at about 2 years; gestation period is 240-262 days, after which a single calf is born, and the female can reproduce annually, depending on environmental conditions
Distribution
The red deer is widely distributed across Europe, from the Atlantic to Asia Minor and parts of Eastern Europe and Scandinavia; found in both temperate and mixed forests, as well as open upland areas, adapting to altitudes that can exceed 2,000 m.
