Oh Deer! Douglas Flashes His Best Toothy Grin

This May, a new-to-the-Zoo species made their big debut on the Northern Trail with the opening of the new Red Panda Forest habitat. Western tufted deer Douglas and Gertrude are two small deer making a huge impression on visitors. Over the summer, guests have spent time connecting with and learning about this unique species as the deer weave through the trees, browse for food, and snooze in the shade of their beautiful new habitat.

While Douglas and Gertrude may look similar, sharp eyes may have noticed something a little different about Douglas — his teeth! Tufted deer are best known for their unique fang-like teeth. These elongated upper canines are most pronounced in males like Douglas and have no hunting or diet-related purpose. In fact, tufted deer are herbivores that feed mainly on leaves, fruits, and other vegetation. Instead, these iconic canines are primarily used for display and competition with rivals during breeding season.

Douglas himself is even more unique! Sporting only a single fang on his left side, make sure you stop by Red Panda Forest on your next Zoo visit to see if you can catch him from his “good” side.

Both Douglas and Gertrude have settled in well in their new habitat and are great at sharing their space with their “roommates,” two red-crowned cranes. Gertrude is the bolder of the two deer, while laid-back Douglas is more comfortable following her lead. Both have a special fondness for snap peas, carrots, and yams. Soon, both deer will put their passion for snacking to the test as they try their “hoof” at a new activity — pumpkin carving. If all goes as planned, you will be able to view their special creations at this year’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, which runs through November 2.