Red deer is one of the largest species of deer in the world. Ancestors of Red deer first appear in fossil records 12 million years ago.

All Red deer calves are born spotted, but usually lose their spots by the end of the summer.

Deer are excellent swimmers and climbers.

Only males (called stags) have antlers which start growing in the spring and are shed in the winter. Only in reindeer does the female grow antlers.

Antlers are made of bone and can grow at a rate of 2.5cm (1in) a day. They are covered with a skin when they are growing, called velvet.

Where do Red deer live?
Most of Europe, parts of Asia and Northwest Africa.

What do Red deer eat?
Grass, tree bark, shoots and leaves.

Why do we keep Red deer?
Red deer are sometimes bred for game or meat - which is called venison. Their skin is used for leather products, and their antlers for buttons and handles.

Average lifespan
10 - 13 years in the wild, over 20 years in captivity.