By st20113 
Introduction
The Fallow Deer (Dama dama) is a medium-large ruminant native to western Eurasia, belonging to the Caprinae subfamily alongside sheep and goats. Known for their distinctive spotted coats and unique palmate antlers, fallow deer have been introduced to many parts of the world and are often kept in parks and forests for hunting and观赏.
Taxonomy
Fallow deer were first described by Linnaeus in 1758. Two subspecies are recognized: the European fallow deer (D. d. dama) and the Caspian fallow deer (D. d. mesopotamica). The species has been widely introduced to North America, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Physical Description
Males (bucks) stand 90-110 cm at the shoulder and weigh 60-100 kg. Females (hinds) are slightly smaller at 80-95 cm and 40-65 kg. The coat is reddish-brown in summer with white spots, turning grey-brown in winter. Bucks develop broad, palmate antlers that branch like a shovel, unique among European deer.
Habitat
Native to Mediterranean woodlands and open forests, fallow deer prefer mixed habitats of woodland and grassland. They are highly adaptable and thrive in parklands, estates, and forest edges where they can find both cover and grazing areas.
Diet
As ruminants, fallow deer are browsers and grazers, feeding on grasses, leaves, shoots, acorns, and other vegetation. They are selective feeders, preferring nutritious young growth. Their diet varies seasonally with availability.
Reproduction
Breeding occurs in autumn (September-October) during the rut. Bucks establish territories and perform elaborate displays including roaring and parallel walking. After a gestation of about 8 months, hinds give birth to 1-2 spotted fawns in June-July.
Conservation
The wild fallow deer population has declined due to habitat loss and hunting. However, introduced populations in many countries are thriving. The IUCN lists the species as Least Concern due to its wide distribution and adaptability.
Fun Facts
Fallow deer were introduced to Britain by the Romans and became popular in medieval parklands. Their palmate antlers are shed and regrown annually. Male fallow deer can weigh up to 100 kg and stand over a meter tall at the shoulder.