Red Deer

Red Deer

Cervus elaphus

Zagatala State Nature Reserve

A species of animal belonging to the family of the even-toed ungulates of the order of mammals. In Azerbaijan, a stable population remains only in the southern foothills of the Greater Caucasus. It was reintroduced in the forests around Goygol in the second half of the 20th century.

It is a large, sometimes medium-sized even-toed animal. Its body length varies between 185-215 cm. The size of females is 20-25% smaller than that of males. Its head is thin, its face and ears are long. The horns of adult individuals are multi-branched, at least 5-pointed. Its tail is short. The fur coat changes depending on the season, its color varies from gray sand color to intense oak color with reddish or brown shades. Although newborn cubs are spotted, these spots disappear as they grow

It is mainly found in areas covered with forest. They live in groups. Males usually travel alone or in small groups. The mating season begins in early autumn.