Cervinae

Cervinae is a subfamily of the deer family Cervidae that includes many of the larger, Old World deer commonly referred to as the true deer. In modern classifications, Cervinae encompasses several genera such as Cervus (including red deer, elk or wapiti, and sika deer), Axis (axis deer), and Dama (fallow deer), among others. The subfamily is distinguished from Capreolinae, the other major deer subfamily, by evolutionary relationships and certain morphological traits, though precise boundaries can vary with different taxonomic treatments.

Most Cervinae species are native to Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa, with some species introduced elsewhere. They occupy a range of habitats including forests, woodlands, grasslands, and mountainous regions, often favoring areas with cover for browsing. They are herbivores, feeding on grasses, leaves, fruits, and shoots; their diets shift seasonally and with local availability.

As with other deer, males grow antlers that are shed annually, with antler size and shape varying by species. Reproduction is typically seasonal, featuring social interactions during the rut and a gestation period generally around seven to eight months. Females usually give birth to one calf, occasionally twins, after which young are tended by the mother and dependent for several months.

Conservation status varies widely among Cervinae species; some are common and widespread, while others are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and human-wildlife conflict. Taxonomic delimitations within Cervinae continue to be refined as molecular studies illuminate deer relationships.