MESOPOTAMIAN RED DEER
Cervus elaphus maral
DESCRIPTION
The Mesopotamian Red Deer, also known as Cervus elaphus maral, is a subspecies of red deer found primarily in the mountainous regions of the Middle East. It is characterized by its robust build and large antlers in males, which are shed annually.
FUN FACTS
- They are known for their impressive vocalizations during the mating season | Males can weigh up to 250 kg | They have a unique ability to adapt to various habitats
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in wild, up to 25 in captivity
Average Weight150-250 kg
Average Length1.8-2.5 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuregroup — they often form herds, especially females with their young.
Activity PatternCrepuscular
Breeding SeasonAutumn (September-November)
- Habitat
- Mesopotamian Red Deer inhabit forested and mountainous areas, often near water sources. They prefer regions with dense vegetation for cover and foraging.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Mountain
- Native Range
- Historically found in the mountainous regions of the Middle East, particularly in areas of Turkey, Iran, and Iraq.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Turkey, Iran, Iraq
- Diet
- This species is herbivorous, primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, and shrubs. They may also consume fruits and bark depending on seasonal availability.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, leaves, shrubs
- Social Structure
- group — they often form herds, especially females with their young.
- Activity Pattern
- Crepuscular
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 1
LC
LC
150-250 kg
Weight
1.8-2.5 m
Length
1.2 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- Reddish-brown coat with lighter underparts and dark spots.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are larger and have antlers, while females are smaller and antlerless.
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in wild, up to 25 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 210 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Autumn (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable but faces threats from habitat loss and hunting.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 10,000-15,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization, as well as poaching.
- Predators
- Wolves, bears, and large cats.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their speed and agility to escape predators, and males may use their antlers for defense.
- Compatible Animals
- none
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon