Roe deer in Polissia

The roe deer is the smallest local deer. Its body is slender, its legs thin, the tail is almost invisible, and at the rear there is a distinct pale “rump patch”. In summer the coat is red, in winter grey-brown. Males have small antlers with three tines.

In Polissia the roe deer is common in mixed forests, on forest edges, clearings and fields near woodland. It is seen in all of Polissia's reserves and national parks, from Shatsk to Mezyn and Desna-Stara Huta.

In summer roe deer keep alone or in pairs; in winter they gather in small groups. A startled animal gives a loud, hoarse “bark” and bounds away, flashing its white rump patch. Fawns are born in May–June, and the doe leaves them lying in the grass.

A fawn found in the grass has not been abandoned: its mother is grazing nearby and will come back. Do not pick it up or take it home – you will only do it harm. Just quietly walk away.