The roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) is a small species of deer. The male is commonly known as a roebuck.

In English, the species was originally referred to simply as the "roe," but over time, the term "roe" has become a qualifier, and the animal is now most often called the "roe deer."

Appearance

In winter, roe deer have a coat that ranges from dark brown to grayish-brown, with a prominent white caudal patch. In summer, their fur turns reddish or red-brown. Male roe deer develop thick skin around their heads, necks, and the front part of their bodies. The tops of their heads are typically brown or gray, and their metatarsal glands are dark brown. Roe deer molt twice a year, once in the spring and again in the autumn. The young, known as kids, are spotted.

Males have antlers that are shed each year between October and November, with new ones growing soon after. These antlers are typically three-tined and feature well-defined basal rosettes. Males are slightly larger than females, and their hooves are short and narrow, with well-developed lateral digits.

Habits and Lifestyle

Roe deer are typically solitary, though they may form family groups consisting of a female and her offspring during the summer months. In winter, most roe deer live in family groups, which form the basis of their social structure. During summer, they are scattered across their territories, while in winter, they tend to concentrate in areas rich in forage.

Roe deer are territorial, and while the territories of males and females may overlap, individuals of the same gender are generally excluded unless they are the offspring of a female from the current year. During the day, roe deer seek refuge in habitats like forests, where they rest in beds—nests of scraped leaf litter on the ground. They are more active at night and during dawn and dusk when there is less ambient activity.

When startled, roe deer will bark in a manner similar to a dog and display their distinctive white patch. The shape of the patch differs between the gender: females have heart-shaped patches, while males' patches are kidney-shaped. Males may also bark or emit a low grunting sound. During the rut (breeding season) in July and August, females make a high-pitched pheep call to attract males.

Diet and Nutrition

Roe deer are herbivores, primarily feeding on grass, leaves, young shoots, and berries. They particularly favor young, tender grass that has recently been rained on, as it tends to have high moisture content. Roe deer generally avoid fields with livestock, like sheep, as these animals tend to soil the grass, making it less appealing for grazing.

Mating Habits

Roe deer are polygynous, with one male mating with multiple females. During courtship, males chase females and often create a roe ring by flattening the underbrush into a figure-eight pattern. Males may also use their antlers to push aside fallen leaves and dirt during this ritual. The breeding season occurs in July and August.

Population and Threats

Roe deer face significant challenges in the wild, with as many as 90% of fawns not surviving their first year. They are often preyed upon by predators like foxes and lynx, particularly in mainland Europe. In addition, respiratory infections and starvation contribute to high mortality rates. The small population of roe deer in Syria is particularly vulnerable due to habitat loss and human persecution.

Population Numbers

The total population size of roe deer is not explicitly reported by the IUCN Red List or other sources. However, the central European population is estimated to be around 15 million individuals.

Ecological Role

Roe deer play an important ecological role as a game species, which makes them a popular subject for scientific research. Their widespread distribution and abundance further enhance their value for study in various ecological contexts.

Roe Deer: Following Their Secret Lives through the Seasons 🦌

Video by Robert E Fuller