Fallow deer

(Dama dama)

Fallow deer were first brought to Britain during the Roman period. Genetic analysis has shown that these Roman fallow deer went extinct in Britain following the collapse of the Roman Empire. In the 11th century the fallow deer were reintroduced and initially they were kept in parks but as the fashion for deer parks declined in the 15th century, many parks fell into disrepair and these medieval escapee deer are the foundation of the free-living population in Britain today.

Gestation period:

225 – 230 days

Threats to species:

There are no major threats to this species in the European population but the Turkish and Rhodian population are at risk.

Conservation Today for Wildlife Tomorrow