Whilst you are out exploring the British countryside, there a number of deer species that can be seen. Here you can find out about all six of the deer species that can be found throughout the UK and their identifying features, enabling you to successfully identify species and sex.
It's important to note that of the six deer species that can be found in the British countryside, only two of them can be considered native. The other four being either introduced or naturalised.
Below you can find a list of all six of the deer species found in the UK including their common and Latin names.
1. Red – Cervus elaphus.
2. Fallow – Dama dama.
3. Sika – Cervus nippon.
4. Roe – Capreolus capreolus.
5. Chinese Water Deer – Hydropotes inermis.
6. Muntjac – Muntiacus reevesi.
So how do we identify each species? Follow us as we look at each individual species and their identifying features.
This week we will be looking at Red deer and their identifying features that will help you make the correct identification whilst out in the field.
Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
Red deer are widespread throughout the majority of the UK and can be classified as upland or lowland. The majority of the upland population being in the Scottish highlands. Upland Red deer are generally smaller than those found in lowland areas where shelter and food source are more abundant. Red stags (male) can vary from 100 – 140cm in height at the shoulder and weigh anywhere between 120 – 250kg. Red hinds (female) can vary from 100 – 120cm in height at the shoulder and weigh anywhere between 60 – 115kg.
Key identifying features of Red deer:
· Britain’s largest deer species and land mammal.
· Distinctive rusty red coat during summer months, turning a shade of brown during the winter period. Adults have no spots.
· A pale, yellowish rump patch that can extend down the hind legs and a short tail.
· Adult stags can be easily distinguished by their large antlers although its not uncommon for them to have single long ‘spikes’.
· Antlers can be branched with multiple points on each antler. Important to note that the brow tine will emerge from the beam at a 90 degree angle.
· A large head with brown eyes that are widely spaced. Hinds tend to develop a more elongated face.
· Large mobile ears.
· Stags can develop a large mane and a thicker appearance to the neck.
· A dorsal line that runs from the back of the head to the rump patch.
You can also check out our YouTube video where you can view a visual representation of how to identify Red deer.
To identify Red stags:
To identify Red hinds:
Don't miss out on our next article where we talk about how to identify Fallow deer and their key identifying features.
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