Adaptations of Dama Deer

Dama dama is the scientific name of the fallow deer that is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to the Americas, Australia and New Zealand. The species is a common wild game animal hunted for its meat and is also commonly seen in zoos. It is a highly adaptable animal, which is a factor in its widespread range.

  1. Physical Adaptations

    • The fallow deer is a relatively large species, growing to almost 6 feet in length and weighing up to 176 pounds. The male of the species has adapted to grow seasonal antlers, which are shed in April and take until around August to grow back. As the antlers are only needed during the breeding season, a full set year-round would be cumbersome. Being specialized herbivores like all deer, the animal has one true stomach and three additional chambers in which vegetation is broken down.

    Behavioral Adaptations

    • Outside of the mating season, the deer has adapted to a particular social structure. Males generally live alone or in small bachelor groups of less than six. Females live in groups that consist of around seven to 14 individuals and include their fawns and the previous year's offspring. The varied diet of the species helps it be adaptable and to live in a variety of habitats. The animals tend to rest more in the winter when food is more scarce to conserve energy.

    Breeding Behavior

    • During the breeding season the most dominant males get to breed with the females, and younger, weaker stags are chased off. The pregnant females will often separate from the herd just prior to birth so as to keep the fawn safe. Once born, the fawn tends to stay in one place, generally in the deep grass, while its mother grazes nearby. The mother only returns to feed the fawn milk, being careful not to give away its position.

    Predator Defense

    • Because of the deer's size, it is safe from most predators, although wolves, cougars and bears are a threat. Living in herds, the fallow deer has safety in numbers and extra pairs of eyes to watch for danger. They also do not tend to be the most active at dusk and dawn, spending the day in forest cover. The species' unusual method of running may also make them hard to catch. The deer lifts its legs higher than other species do, leaps with all four feet in the air and flashes the white underside of its tail as it runs.