Red deer

Characteristics:
The red deer is large and powerful, measuring 160–250 cm in length and up to 120 cm high at the shoulder. Its coat is reddish-brown in summer and grey-brown in winter. The male (stag) has large, branched antlers that are shed each winter and regrown in spring. The female (hind) is smaller and lacks antlers.

Distribution:
Red deer are found mainly in southern and central Sweden, often in forested areas with nearby open fields. They thrive in landscapes that offer both cover and good grazing.

Diet:
Red deer feed primarily on grasses, herbs, leaves, shoots, bark, and various agricultural crops.

Young:
The hinds give birth to one calf (occasionally two) in May–June. The calf is light brown with white spots that disappear later in the summer.

Rut:
The rutting season (mating period) occurs in august-september.

Calls:
During the rut, the stag produces a deep, powerful roar to attract hinds and defend his territory.

Tracks:
Red deer tracks are large and strong, about 7–9 cm long. They consist of two pointed impressions that are often slightly apart. In soft ground, the small dewclaws can sometimes be seen behind the main tracks.

Hunting:
Red deer are hunted in autumn through stalking, stand, or driven hunts. They are wary animals, most active at dawn and dusk.

Weapon Class:
Hunting red deer requires a Class 1 rifle, meaning ammunition with at least 2,700 joules of energy at 100 meters.