The white-tailed deer is one of North America’s most familiar wild animals, easily recognized by its graceful body, big ears and bright white tail.

When danger is nearby, a white-tailed deer raises its tail like a warning flag to alert other deer.

These deer are herbivores, eating leaves, twigs, grasses, acorns, berries, fruits and other plants. They are also very alert, using strong hearing and an excellent sense of smell to stay safe.

During mating season, called the rut, bucks may compete using their antlers.

Baby white-tailed deer are called fawns. They are born with white spots that help them blend into grass and leaves. A fawn lying alone is usually not abandoned — its mother often stays away to avoid attracting predators.

White-tailed deer are adaptable animals that can live in forests, fields, wetlands, farmland and even suburban neighborhoods.

Fun Fact: A buck grows and sheds a brand-new set of antlers every year.

Sources: National Geographic, Animal Diversity Web, Maryland Department of Natural Resources