Some SMESL Critters White Tailed Deer

What type of deer are on the SMESL? White tailed deer Two type of deer in Kansas –White tailed deer –Mule deer –Also Elk & Pronghorn Antelope in western part of state

Why are they called White Tailed? Because the underside of the tail is white. Q: What do they use it for? A:As a flag to warm other deer –Some also think it is a signal to the babies to follow

When do we usually see deer? What does crepuscular mean? Active at dusk and dawn –When active most the time They can be nocturnal and we occasionally see them in the day time.

Classification Kingdom - Anamilia Phylum - Chordate Class – mammals Order – Artiodactyla Family – Cervidae (deer family) –Elk, moose, mule deer, etc Genus and Species –Odocoileus virginianus

Characteristics Males are called? They have long external ears and can turn them Why? –A:Hear predators They have large eyes –Q:Where are they set? A:Side of head –Q:What is their field of vision? A:Almost 360 – like a rabbit

Hunter Safety MUST wear orange when hunting Can deer see this color? –A:color blind like most herbivores What other sense do they have to detect predators? –A:smell

Scent Glands Located on different parts of their legs and also on their foreheads. Q:What purpose do these glands serve? –A:Communicate with other deer Hay I’m here, this is my territory!

Males Weigh more – lbs Males molt –Tan brown in summer –Grayish brown in winter camouflage Rub on trees to mark territory

Which has Antlers? Males have antlers –Caller a rack –Made of bone –Fall off and re grow each year What are antlers used for?

What is a female deer called? Doe Usually weight lbs No antlers Are polyesterous –Can ovulate more than once a year –Every 28 days during oct-dec unless pregnant –Gestation 6 ½ months

How long do the live? Up to 10 years Usually 2-3 years –Predators –Parasites –lack of food in winter