Key Deer - Fun Facts and The National Key Deer Refuge

 

 

 

The Key Deer (Odocoileus virginianus clavium), sometimes called a “toy deer,” is a subspecies of white-tailed deer that is unique to the Florida Keys. Key deer are the

smallest North American deer species, this small size being one of their defining characteristics. 

 

Key deer are either reddish/brown or a gray/brown color similar to the white-tailed deer we see

back home in New Jersey. Males can be identified by their antlers and, their larger size in

comparison to females. 

 

Key deer live in various ecosystems across the keys spanning freshwater wetlands, mangroves,

pine forests, etc. They are also known to search for freshwater by swimming between islands. 

 

Although they used to span throughout much of the lower Keys, they are now primarily found in the

Big Pine Key. This is where the National Key Deer Refugeis located. This refuge was established in the 1950s after poaching and habitat loss greatly

impacted the Key Deer and many other species. The refuge currently protects the endangered

Key Deer as well as 20+ other endangered plant and animal species.

 

 

 

 

The refuge spans over a hundred miles through and is home to a range of habitats including

mangrove forests, salt marshes, pine forests, and more. When visiting the refuge you can

see many of the species that reside there in all of these different ecosystems. There is a variety

of trails as well as a visitors center. 

 

Key deer have become very accustomed to humans over time, and although they are really cute,

do not get too close or try to feed them. Not only is it illegal, but this comfort has caused the deer

to roam closer to humans making them vulnerable to being hit by cars or attacked by dogs. It is

also a good idea to drive carefully and with caution when you are in an area where these deer

are found to avoid any accidents.

 

The refuge focuses not only on conservation and education but also on law enforcement. State

and federal law enforcement is very protective of this precious endangered species. For example,

state law enforcement is currently investigating the shooting of a Key deer, with a $5000 reward

being offered for information. Check out this link to read more about this story. 

 

 

 

The National Key Deer Refuge is a beautiful place with tons of plants and animals to see.

They do amazing work and I think it would be a really cool place to visit!