Fallow Deer
Cervus dama dama
Europe

History
Thought to have been introduced into Britain by the Normans, they have spread from deer forests into the surrounding countryside. It is estimated that there are tens of thousands of fallow deer through-out the UK.

Reproduction
Born after a gestation period of 229 to 240 days, the deer are fawn in colour with white spots on their backs although both black and white individuals are fairly common. Young bucks will stay with the doe herds until they are 18 months old, when they leave to join the buck herds.

Diet
They will browse on buds, leaves, acorns, berries, and they will also strip bark from trees. They also graze on low vegatation and will eat crops such as carrots, sugar beet, parsnips or potatoes

Measurements
Weight: 50 to 100kg
Height (to shoulder): 70 to 90cm
Length: 130 to 160cm

 Fallow buck and doe
fallow doe wih black colouration
Description
This medium-sized deer can be found in four different colour forms; the most common being with a reddish brown coat with white spots. The other three colour forms are black (with no spots), white and a paler/sandy colour. The fallow deer is the only British deer with palmate antlers.

Behaviour
Fallow deer are active at different times of the day and night. They mainly feed in the early morning and in the evening ; laying up during the day to avoid detection.

Habitat
Deciduous woodland and clearings