Capreolus capreolus
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Capreolus capreolus weighs between 15 kg and 30 kg, can reach a length of up to 135 cm, and a shoulder height of up to 75 cm. Preferred habitats include forests, fields, and meadows (Schaefer 2018). The fur on the upper part of the body is reddish-brown, while the underside is lighter. The muzzle is black, and the chin is white. There is a white patch on the hindquarters called the “mirror.” Male individuals have antlers, which are shed in autumn and begin to regrow in May. The main activity of the roe deer is during dawn and dusk. Mating occurs between July and August. The female usually gives birth to two fawns at the end of May (Southern 1965).
Diet: Capreolus capreolus feeds on plant matter. It consumes leaves, buds, and fruits of various plant species, such as blackberry, privet, and juniper (Southern 1965).
Conservation status: The European roe deer is considered “not endangered” throughout its distribution range.
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Schaefer, M (2018)Brohmer – Fauna von Deutschland. Ein Bestimmungsbuch unserer heimischen Tierwelt: Quelle & Meyer Verlag GmbH & Co.
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Southern, H (1965)Handbook of British mammals. Mammal society of the British isles. Unter Mitarbeit von Robert Gillmor und Erik Thorn: Blackwell Scientific Publications Oxford.