Deer

In the UK, deer are a common sight in the countryside, with several species inhabiting the diverse landscapes. There are 6 species of deer found in the UK, of which only two species are truly native; red deer and roe deer. 

Red Deer

The Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) is Britain's largest land mammal. Males can measure up to 1.37m at the shoulder and weigh up to 190kg.

Red deer have a distinctive dark reddish colour in summer, turning to brown in winter coat. Adults are not spotted. They have a short tail and a pale rump patch.

Roe Deer

The Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus) is a dainty deer measuring up to 0.75m at the shoulder and weighing up to 25kg.

Their coat colour varies throughout the year, from rusty red in summer to a slate grey in winter. The Roe Deer doesn't have an obvious tail.

Fallow Deer

Although not native to the UK, Fallow Deer (Dama dama) are considered naturalised. Males can measure up to 90cm at the shoulder and weigh 93kg.

Fallow deer sport a distinctive dappled coat which can have many variations. They commonly have a black inverted horseshoe on their rumps, and a black stripe on their tails.

Muntjac Deer

Muntjac Deer (Muntiacus reevesi) are not native to the UK. This small species was brought over from China in the early 20th century and subsequently became widespread after deliberate releases.

Muntjac deer can be identified by their reddish brown coat and dark V on the face. Bucks measure up to 0.52m at the shoulder and weigh up to 18kg.

Sika Deer

The Sika Deer (Cervus nippon) is another non native deer species, introduced to the UK from Asia in 1860.

Sika Deer have a dappled coat similar to Fallow Deer, which varies throughout the seasons. Their head is smaller head and features a furrowed brow, giving them a somewhat disgruntled expression. Stags measure up to 0.95m at the shoulder and weigh up to 70kg.

Chinese Water Deer

Chinese Water Deer (Hydropotes inermis) are also a non native species. Their introduction occured when several escaped from Wipsnade Zoo in 1929.

These small deer can be identified by their russet brown coat, large, round ears and stocky build. Males and females both have tusks rather than antlers.

Bucks can reach up to 0.55m in height and weigh up to 18kg.

Baby Deer

It is normal for a mother to leave a young deer hidden as it cannot keep up with her when she is feeding. As a baby deer has little to no scent it is well protected from predators if it lies still. The mother will return every two to three hours to feed it both day and night.

If you find a fawn, kid or calf please follow the Baby Deer Code:

  • Move away immediately
  • Do not be tempted to touch the deer or pick it up – your scent may stop the mother returning to feed her baby and hand rearing has limited success rates.
  • If you have a dog, please keep it away from the deer and on a lead under full control.
  • If the fawn has not moved after 24 hour, contact the national RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.

Deer On The Roads

As deer become more common in suburban and urban areas, so do road collisions involving deer. Research indicates that over 74,000 deer-vehicle collisions occur every year. Areas with high deer populations will often feature a deer warning road sign. Reduce your speed should you see such a sign and pay particular attention to roadside verges.

Accidents Happen

If you've been involved in an accident with a deer on a motorway or A-road, call Highways England (0300 123 5000) or Traffic Wales (0845 602 6020) who will make arrangements for the animal to be removed.

On minor roads, call the police on 101. They'll decide the best action to take for the safety of both the animal and road users.

Injured Deer

If you find an injured, sick deer or dead deer or if it’s unclear if the deer is injured or not, watch and wait for an hour or two. They may recover and wander off. After that time, if it’s clear that they need help, contact the national RSPCA on 0300 1234 999. Please do not try to rescue, handle or transport the deer yourself.