mammal · GBIF taxon 5220126
Roe Deer
Capreolus capreolusAlso known as Western Roe Deer, European Roe, Roe, Roebuck
Roe deer are small, elegant cervids that thrive in the mosaic landscapes of European woodlands and agricultural fields. They are highly solitary compared to other deer, forming loose groups only during the harsh winter months. When startled, they emit a loud, dog-like barking sound and flash their prominent white rump patches to warn others of danger.
CrepuscularForest-dwellingAgile
- diet
- Herbivorous browser (leaves, shoots, berries, grasses, and young bark)
- family
- Cervidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, vehicle collisions, and predation by large carnivores
- life Span
- 10 to 15 years in the wild
LC
Can carry ticks transmitting Lyme disease; avoid close contact and check for ticks after walking in tall grass.
They are primary hosts for Ixodes ticks, which transmit Lyme disease, and cornered bucks can inflict injuries with their sharp antlers.
Maintain a respectful distance, especially during the summer rut, and perform a thorough tick check after visiting their habitat.- Scan forest edges: Look along woodland borders at dawn and dusk when they emerge to feed.
- Listen for barks: Listen for their harsh, dog-like alarm barks echoing through the trees.
- Keep dogs leashed: Keep pets on a leash to avoid flushing nesting does or vulnerable fawns.