Fallow Deer (Dama dama)
Fallow deer are fairly widespread throughout the UK with the majority of the population being in the south of England which is thought to be due to a large density of woodland and forestry. Fallow are the second largest species to be found in the UK countryside. The status of Fallow deer are thought to be naturalised after being introduced during the Roman period. Fallow bucks (male) can vary from 90 – 95cm in height at the shoulder and can weigh somewhere in the region of 50 – 95kg. Fallow does (female) can vary from 80 – 85cm in height at the shoulder and weigh somewhere between 40 – 50kg.
Key identifying features of Fallow deer:
· The most varied in terms of coat colour.
· Four main colours which include, common, Menil, Melanistic and White.
· A long tail, the longest of all deer species found in the UK.
· The only species in the UK that has palmate antlers.
· Large angular ears.
· Bucks have a very noticeable ‘pizzle’ or penis.
· Bucks can have a distinct Adams apple.
Common
· A reddish colour and spotted however some can show little to no spots depending on colour variation.
· Generally 3 ‘bands’ can be seen visible horizontally on the main body. An upper reddish band, a lighter middle band and finally a white band which can be easily distinguishable.
· A thick black dorsal stripe running down the back and onto the tail surrounding the rump and forming an ‘M’ shape or inverted horseshoe.
Menil
· Generally more noticeably spotted and creamier or lighter in colour.
· The dorsal stripe is now brown in colour instead of black.
· A very distinguishable white horizontal line across the main body.
Melanistic
· Melanistic is generally referring to black in colour however they are more noticeably two tone in colour.
· Generally the upper half of the body is darker than the lower half.
White
· Generally block white in colour however they can be described as a more sandy colour in young age, gradually becoming whiter with age.
· They are not albino. Albinos can be quite rare and would exhibit pink eyes, nose and hooves.
A thanks to one of our followers for sending in this footage of a white Fallow feeding on a ride in woodland.
You can also check out our YouTube video where you can view a visual representation of how to identify Fallow deer.
To identify Fallow bucks:
To identify Fallow does:
Join us next time as we discuss how to identify Sika deer and their key identifying features to help you in the field.
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