Capreolus capreolus; The Roe Deer
The smallest of our two native deer, with its scientific name meaning 'the little goat' (quite unflattering as a nickname according to Stefan Buczacki). The white rump and large black nose of this species are characteristic, and do not form herds unlike the red deer, instead remaining individual, in pairs or in small groups within woodlands, especially by the edge of woodlands.
They are the only species in the order known to exhibit delayed implantation, and can live up to 20 years, though in the wild this rarely happens and lifespans of 7-8 years are more likely. The adults have no predators but are regularly culled by humans, although fawns can be predated by red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in the first few weeks after birth.
They are the only species in the order known to exhibit delayed implantation, and can live up to 20 years, though in the wild this rarely happens and lifespans of 7-8 years are more likely. The adults have no predators but are regularly culled by humans, although fawns can be predated by red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in the first few weeks after birth.