Roe Deer
Capreolus capreolus
Shoulder height 65-70cm

Arguably our most attractive deer and smallest of our two native species. Does not form herds but seen instead singly or in twos or threes depending on sex and time of year. Male (buck, A) has small, ridged and branched antlers which are shed in November; female (doe) lacks antlers. Fawn (B) is well camouflaged. Found in areas of scrub and woodland with brambles and dense undergrowth; sometimes in upland areas. Where not unduly persecuted, becomes bold in presence of people. If alarmed, however, will bark loudly and make off with leaps and bounds. Commonest in CS England, especially Hampshire, N England and Scotland. Absent from Wales and much of C England.