It’s common for an animal to have multiple names associated with it. The name used to refer to the species could vary depending on gender, the scientific or local name assigned, and the different geographical locations where the creature inhabits.
Since a male deer is among those animals that have several names, this article will highlight them while providing comprehensive information related to each name and the reasons for each title.
What is a Male Deer Called?
It’s essential to note that there are 47 different deer species living in various habitats globally except the Antarctica continent.
Although they share most similarities regarding their body/physical features and characteristics, they also have significant differences that enable each species to adapt to their unique ecosystem.
The difference in species is also a significant reason why the male deer has different names. Therefore let’s take a comprehensive look at the names/titles used to refer to a male deer.
Buck
The phrase “buck” refers to any male deer, regardless of the species, but a male deer must reach full maturity before obtaining this title.
Wildlife biologists and hunters commonly refer to male deer as “bucks” when referring to Roe Deer, White-Tailed Deer, Mule Deer, and Muntjac Deer.
However, this phrase also describes males of other species, such as rabbits, hares, rats, goats, antelopes, and sometimes male sheep.
Bull
The male species of large mammalian species like cows, bison, and buffalo are typically referred to as a “bull.”
However, the term “bull” is also used to describe some of the biggest deer species found in North America. They include the male deer species of Moose, North American Elk (or Wapiti), and Caribou (or Reindeer).
These deer species are primarily prevalent in the forests and grasslands of the United States and Canada. The Sambar male species, native to South East Asia and India, is also called a ‘bull’ due to its large body size.
Stag
The term stag is reserved exclusively for deer and isn’t used to describe any other types of animals.
Although the terms stag and buck can also describe the same animal, it’s essential to note that a mature buck will generally be referred to as a stag.
A stag is undoubtedly a sight to behold because it may reach a height of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) in shoulder height.
Also read: Are Deer Friendly? Do They Show Affection to Humans?
Hart
The word “stag” was formerly called “hart” in old English. It is frequently seen in literature and was once used to refer to a mature Red Deer stag during the Medieval Era.
Even though it isn’t used as frequently these days, the name has a significant history of use, hence the reason to include it in addition to the other three titles for male deer.
What is a Baby Deer Called?
The ideal title for a baby deer will depend on various factors, including the species of deer, the region, and cultural customs.
The word ‘fawn’ is often used to describe a baby deer. However, a young deer is also known as a ‘calf’ or ‘kid’ in certain species of deer.
It’s vital to note that a young deer is no longer referred to as a fawn after turning one year old; it is now called a yearling. When the deer turns two years old, the males are referred to as bucks, and the females as does.
Also read: Where Do Deer Sleep? All About Deer Sleeping Habits
Buck vs. Stag – What’s The Difference?
Although either phrase may refer to a deer’s male gender, there is a significant distinction between the two. The name “stag” refers to an adult male animal, while “buck” can also refer to an immature male animal.
However, apart from referring to a male deer, the term “buck” is also used to describe a male rabbit, kangaroo, rat, hare, goat, or antelope. Because stag is outdated, the term “buck” is commonly used when referring to a male deer.
Also read: What Do Deer Eat? Deer’s Diet and Favorite Food
What Do You Call a Female Deer?
Similar to her male counterpart, a female deer also has multiple names. However, these three names are the most commonly used.
Doe is a relatively frequent name given to mature female deer. This word also refers to females of various species, like rabbits and kangaroos.
The word “Hind” describes some larger deer species’ females. The term “cow,” refers to females that belong to the large deer species like the Moose, Elk (Wapiti), and Caribou or Reindeer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Male Antelope Called?
The word “antelope” describes a variety of even-toed ruminant animals native to different parts of Africa and Eurasia.
“Ram” refers to male antelopes, and “ewe” refers to females. Other names for some antelope species include “buck” (male) and “doe” (female). “Bulls (males)” and “cows(females)” are terms also used to describe some larger antelopes, such as the kudu.
What Do You Call a Male Elk?
Wapiti, which means “light-colored deer,” is another name for the elk. Elk males are typically known as bulls and females as cows.
How to Tell the Difference Between Male and Female Deer?
The body’s size, head shape, and antlers are the best indicators of whether a deer is male or female.
For instance, males have more prominent and conspicuous antlers, hairy tails, larger and more rounded hooves, substantially thicker necks, and broader shoulders than females.
A male deer’s mane is also more extensive and more noticeable than a female deer.
If a deer is not entirely mature, you can determine its gender by examining the size of its antlers. It is probably a female deer if the antlers are short and stubby; since a male deer is most likely to have huge, fully-grown antlers.
Final Thoughts
Fortunately, this post has answered the vital question of what to call a male deer (a stag or buck) so that they are never again referred to as Uncle Deer.
However, if you happen to read historical literature and spot the term hart, remember that it’s another definition of a male deer, although this term is rarely used nowadays.
