Deer

Children's Literature

One of the "Wild America" series, this volume introduces the young reader to the largest wild animal that lives near humans. Deer are mammals in the Cervidae family. White-tailed deer and blacktail or mule deer are prevalent n North America. The book is unclear on whether moose, caribou, and elk are also considered deer or just other species in the Cervidae family. Deer prefer to live in areas with open meadows and woodlands, where they can roam, eat, and lie down to sleep. Their agile, speedy bodies are equipped with excellent hearing, eyesight, and a keen sense of smell, all for protection from predators. The life cycle of antlers on male deer (bucks) is described in some detail. The social life among deer, their eating habits, mating rituals, and fawn-rearing are outlined. There is less wild area for deer as the human population spreads out, resulting in more deer living in the suburbs and feeding on gardens and fruit orchards. The photographs are varied and appealing, but the species should be identified. A glossary, further reading list, and index are included. Children should find this book educational. 2002, Blackbirch Press/The Gale Group,