The Ubiquitous White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)

The white-tailed deer is the most widely distributed large mammal in North America. It can be found in habitats ranging from deep forests to fragmented suburban woodlands, making it one of the most commonly observed members of the deer family.

Identification: The deer’s name comes from its most obvious feature: a large, white underside to its tail. When alarmed, a white-tailed deer will raise its tail like a flag, a signal of danger to other deer. Their coat color changes seasonally, from a reddish-brown in the summer to a grayish-brown in the winter, providing excellent camouflage. Adult males, or bucks, grow antlers each year, beginning in the spring and shedding them in the winter. Females, or does, do not have antlers. An adult can stand 3 to 3.5 feet tall at the shoulder.

Ecology and Behavior: White-tailed deer are herbivores, feeding on a wide variety of plant matter. They are browsers, meaning they primarily eat leaves, twigs, shoots, and buds from woody plants. They also eat forbs, nuts (especially acorns), and some grasses. They are most active during the crepuscular hours of dawn and dusk, which is when they are most often involved in vehicle collisions.

The breeding season, known as the “rut,” occurs in the fall. During this time, bucks become more active and less cautious as they compete for mates. This is a fascinating time to observe their behavior from a safe distance, but it also corresponds with a peak in deer-vehicle accidents.

Coexistence and Safety: While beautiful, deer can cause significant damage to gardens and landscaping. Using fencing, netting, or planting deer-resistant native species can help mitigate this. The primary safety concern with deer is on the road. Be especially vigilant when driving at dawn and dusk, particularly in areas with deer crossing signs. If you see one deer cross the road, slow down and expect others to follow.