The Scottish red deer, closely related to the American elk, is the largest deer. It is native to Europe, Asia and northwestern Africa and was introduced into New Zealand.

It is found primarily in woodlands.

The red deer stands about 1.2m high at the shoulder and weighs as much as 340kg. The male has long, branched antlers with a total of 10 or more tines.  An animal with 12 tines is known as a “royal’’; one with14 tines is a “Wilson.’’

The males and females live in separate herds most of the year.