MarkyMarks Nature Blog:-A walk up the local woods #2

Roe Deer - Photo by Mark Appleton

This is my second blog about local nature. I am lucky enough to live within walking distance of the local woods. I realize not everyone does, or has a garden, so I hope this article brings nature a bit closer to you in these trying times. I often join my sister to walk her dogs and we usually take our once daily allocated exercise up the woods. I always take my camera as you never know what wildlife maybe about. There always seems to be a wildlife surprise whenever I leave my camera at home, so now it is always around my neck on walks.

On a particular day last week the sun was shining and we spotted the deer resting among the trees and bluebells that will bloom very soon. We always stick to the main paths in the woods with the dogs on leads to avoid wildlife disturbance. At this time of year this is also particularly important on heathlands (especially New Forest) due to ground nesting birds. Please allow these birds to bring up their young rather than them abandoning them due to disturbance of dogs romping among the heather. Please stick to the paths keeping your dogs under control.

Roe Deer - Photo by Mark Appleton

The pictures here are of Roe deer that were photographed from the main path with a zoom lens. Roe deer are the most common European deer and the smallest native species. The attractive Roe deer is native to the United Kingdom and widespread across woodland, farmland, grassland and heathland habitats. The first photo shows its distinctive pale rump. The short antlers on the male with at most three points on each antler are also good identification features. Its coat is red brown above which turns grey in the winter.

The Roe deer is a secretive, solitary, nocturnal woodland inhabitant although it is increasingly found in suburban habitats due to habitat destruction. Both sexes of Roe deer make dog-like barking noises when startled or alarmed. During the breeding season does attract bucks with a high-pitched piping call. Bucks respond with a rasping noise during courtship. Young Roe deer make a high-pitched whistle to attract their mothers when they become lost.

Roe Deer - Photo by Mark Appleton

Interesting fact:- Did you know the male is called the Buck, female the doe and their offspring the kid. Mating occurs in July and August, but females delay implantation of the fertilised egg until January of the following year, so that the young are not born during the harsh winter months.

Roe Deer - Photo by Mark Appleton

As with most deer the fawns have white spots on their coat. The young are born in a single litter of one or two, rarely three, in May or June.

For more information click on the following link:-  Roe Deer

Similar non native species are Muntjac and Chinese Water Deer. Both are smaller and have a different rump pattern.

and lastly

A BIG SHOUT OUT FOR ALL OUR ESSENTIAL KEY WORKERS WHO ARE DOING AN AMAZING JOB IN THESE DIFFICULT TIMES

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