Deer

In this book John Fletcher describes the evolution, species, habitats, behaviour and diet of the deer, as well as its portrayal in art and influence on popular culture, myth and song.

The Celts called them ‘fairy cattle’ and the Greeks associated them with hunter goddess Artemis, but for most people today deer are seen as cute like Bambi, or noble like the Monarch of the Glen. Deer appear on coats of arms, in fine art and in literature. In Deer, veterinarian and deer farmer John Fletcher brings together the cultural and natural history of these dignified animals. In this book the reader will learn about the evolution of the deer, as well as why deer grow and cast aside their antlers each year. The book also describes how rulers from Caesar to Napoleon placed collars on deer, and how today deer feature prominently in films. Fletcher traces the evolution of deer and describes their symbolism, divulging the true story of Rudolph and other reindeer, and explores the role deer have played as prized objects of the hunt. Richly illustrated, Deer provides a fresh perspective on this graceful, powerful animal that will appeal to hunters and gatherers alike.