By st20113 
Introduction
The Fallow Deer, scientifically known as Dama dama, is a medium-sized deer species native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Western Asia. This elegant cervid is easily recognised by its spotted coat, broad antlers, and distinctive call. Fallow Deer were introduced to Britain by the Romans and have since become naturalized in many areas. They inhabit deciduous woodlands and parklands, where they play an important role in shaping vegetation structure through browsing and grazing.
Taxonomy
The Fallow Deer belongs to the family Cervidae, which includes all deer species. Molecular studies have identified several subspecies across its range, from Greece to India. The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. Genetic analysis shows that Dama deer diverged from other cervids approximately 3 million years ago. The Fallow Deer is closely related to other fallow deer species, with which it shares similar body patterns and behavioral traits.
Physical Characteristics
Fallow Deer measure 110–155 cm in body length, with tail adding another 15–25 cm. Males weigh 40–70 kg, while females are smaller at 35–50 kg. Their coat is reddish-brown in summer, turning grayish-brown in winter, with white spots that help camouflage them in dappled forest light. Males develop broad, palmate antlers that can span up to 80 cm, used in combat during the rutting season. Females lack antlers and have a more streamlined body shape adapted for fleeing predators.
Habitat
Fallow Deer inhabit deciduous and mixed woodlands, parklands, and forest edges. They prefer areas with open understory for grazing and dense cover for shelter. In Britain, they are found in large estates and forests where they can roam freely. Fallow Deer are adaptable and can tolerate a range of environmental conditions, from coastal areas to mountainous regions. They are most active during dawn and dusk, resting in dense cover during the heat of day.
Diet
Fallow Deer are ruminants, feeding on grasses, leaves, fruits, and fungi. They are selective browsers, preferring nutritious shoots and leaves over mature vegetation. During autumn, they consume acorns, beechmast, and other fruits that provide essential fats for winter. Their four-chambered stomach allows them to digest tough plant material efficiently. Fallow Deer can consume up to 3% of their body weight in food daily, with higher requirements during the rutting season.
Reproduction
Fallow Deer breed in September and October, with males competing for females through antler combat and vocal displays. Males establish territories and defend groups of females called harems. Gestation lasts approximately 8 months, with does giving birth to 1–2 spotted fawns in May or June. Fawns are hidden in vegetation for the first few weeks, returning to their mothers for nursing. Young males leave the herd after their first year, while females often remain with their mothers.
Conservation
Fallow Deer populations have increased in many areas due to habitat protection and reduced predation. In Britain, they are considered an established non-native species, with populations managed through culling and control programs. Overpopulation can lead to over browsing and damage to woodland regeneration. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining balanced populations through sustainable management practices. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN across its native range.
Fun Facts
Fallow Deer were introduced to Britain by the Romans over 2,000 years ago and have since become naturalized in many areas. Their distinctive call, known as the bark, can be heard up to 2 kilometers away during the rutting season. Males shed their antlers annually in March and April, growing new ones decorated with extra tines called prongs. Fallow Deer can run at speeds up to 60 km/h when escaping predators.