Red deer (Cervus elaphus) are one of the largest species of deer and are native to many regions of Europe, the Caucasus Mountains, Asia Minor, and parts of Western and Central Asia.

Red deer have a reddish-brown coat in summer which turns to a duller brown in winter. Males, called stags, have impressive antlers that can grow very large, while females, called hinds, do not have antlers.

Males are significantly larger than females. Stags can weigh between 160-240 kg (350-530 lbs) and stand about 120 cm (47 in) at the shoulder. Hinds are smaller, weighing about 120-170 kg (260-370 lbs) and standing around 100 cm (39 in) tall./p>

Stags grow new antlers every year, which they shed in late winter or early spring. Antler growth is influenced by age, genetics, and nutrition.

Red deer inhabit a variety of environments, including woodlands, grasslands, and mountains. They prefer areas with plenty of cover and access to water. They are herbivores, feeding on grasses, leaves, shoots, and sometimes bark. Their diet can vary depending on the season and availability of food. Red deer are social animals and typically form groups. Hinds and their offspring form herds, while stags tend to live alone or in bachelor groups outside the mating season.

Known as the rut, the breeding season occurs in autumn. Stags compete for the attention of hinds through displays of dominance, including vocalizing (roaring), parallel walking, and fighting with their antlers. In the wild, red deer can live up to 15 years, though this can vary based on environmental factors and predation.

Red deer populations are generally stable, but they are subject to habitat loss, hunting, and predation. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and sustainable hunting practices.

www.wildlifetrusts.org www.nationalgeographic.com iconicspecies.iucnredlist.org

Dolphins are highly intelligent marine mammals known for their playful behavior and complex social structures.

There are about 90 species of dolphins, including the bottlenose dolphin, the common dolphin, and the killer whale (orca), which is actually a type of dolphin.

Dolphins have streamlined bodies, a dorsal fin, and a long, beak-like snout. They are usually gray in color with varying patterns. They range in size from the 1.7-meter (5.6 ft) long Maui's dolphin to the 9.5-meter (31 ft) long orca.

Dolphins inhabit all oceans and many rivers around the world, preferring warm, shallow waters. They are carnivorous, feeding mainly on fish and squid. Some species, like the orca, have more varied diets that include seals and even other whales.

Dolphins live in groups called pods, which can range from a few individuals to over a thousand. They communicate through a complex system of squeaks, whistles, and body language. They are known for their high intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and the use of tools. They exhibit behaviors such as play, cooperation, and even cultural transmission of behaviors.

Dolphins face threats from habitat loss, pollution, entanglement in fishing gear, and hunting. Various organizations are working to protect dolphins through marine protected areas, regulations on fishing practices, and public education.

www.nationalgeographic.com www.worldwildlife.org www.fisheries.noaa.gov

Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are medium-sized mammals native to North America, known for their distinctive appearance and adaptability to various environments. They belong to the family Procyonidae and are notable for their intelligence and nocturnal habits.

They have a characteristic black "mask" across their eyes. They also bushy tail with alternating dark and light rings, whilst their fur is a dense grayish fur that provides insulation.

Lifespan: In the wild, they live 2–5 years, while in captivity, they can live over 10 years.

Raccoons are primarily active at night but may be seen during the day, especially in urban areas. They are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders, consuming fruits, nuts, insects, small animals, and human leftovers. Known for their nimble front paws, raccoons can manipulate objects and open containers, including jars and latches. Solitary by nature, raccoons may form small groups during breeding season or when raising young.