Roe deer
Enw gwyddonol: Capreolus capreolus
The attractive roe deer is native to the UK and widespread across woodland, farmland, grassland and heathland habitats. Look for its distinctive pale rump and short antlers.
Species information
Ystadegau
Length: 0.9-1.3mShoulder height: 60-75cm
Weight: 10-25kg
Average lifespan: 7 years
Statws cadwraethol
Common. Protected in the UK under the Deer Act 1991.
Pryd i'w gweld
January to DecemberYnghylch
Our most common native deer, the roe deer tends to be solitary in summer, but forms small, loose groups in winter. The males have relatively short antlers, typically with three points. They begin to grow their antlers in November, shedding the velvet from them in the spring. By summer, they are ready for the rutting season. After mating, they shed their antlers in October and begin to grow a new set.Roe deer live in areas of mixed countryside that includes woodland, farmland, grassland and heathland. They eat buds and leaves from trees and shrubs, as well as ferns, grasses and heathers.