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Hangin' with Key Deer

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Endearing Florida Deer

I had never heard of Key Deer until I read Florida Keys Getaway written by MiMi GrowWear. In her article, MiMi noted that the Key Deer are endangered and when I saw her picture of this sweet deer, I was immediately intrigued.  After reading about them, I found the Key Deer, well, endearing.




Unless otherwise noted, all Images from: Florida Keys Getaway written by MiMi GrowWear



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Key Deer

Key DeerThese precious deer, also known as the Toy Deer, were hunted to near extinction in the 1950's in spite of the fact that hunting was banned in the 30's.

Because of efforts to save these sweet creatures, their status has been raised to endangered. While that allows for a little sigh of relief, it is very little. The remaining numbers vary greatly depending on the source, but 800 was the highest estimate I could find.

Some of these beautiful animals literally live their lives in the backyards of Florida Key residents. They have very little fear of man which places them more at risk. Not because the residents intentionally harm them, but because deer and cars do not play well together, The Toy Deer are so familiar with humans, that it is not uncommon for them to eat right out of your hand even though is is prohibited by law. I don't think the deer understand this law and it would be very hard to deny these sweethearts when they look at you with their big doe eyes that bid you to part with your cookie.

Key Deer, an Endangered Species, Big Pine Key National Wildlife Refuge, Florida

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A Few Facts About the Key Deer

Key Deer
  • Bucks Weight: 55 - 75 lbs

  • Does Weigh: 44 - 64 lbs

  • Height: 26 - 30 in. tall at the shoulders

  • Lifespan: Average 8 - 10 years

  • Lives in the Florida Key

  • Swims between the islands to find food and water

  • Diet: Over 150 plants. Mangroves and thatch palm berries make up the most important part of their diet.

  • ENDANGERED

    • National Key Deer Refuge

    Key DeerThe National Key Deer Refuge was established in 1957 to protect and preserve Key deer and other wildlife resources in the Florida "Keys." The refuge is located in the lower Florida Keys and currently consists of approximately 9,200 acres of land that includes pine rockland forests, tropical hardwood hammocks, freshwater wetlands, salt marsh wetlands, and mangrove forests. These natural communities are critical habitat for hundreds of endemic and migratory species including 17 federally-listed species such as Key deer, lower Keys marsh rabbit, and silver rice rat."

    Information and picture Copied directly from National Key Deer Refuge website

    A Special Thank You

    I would like to express my thanks to MiMi for introducing me to this precious deer and also for allowing me to use her personal photos.

    MiMi GrowWear has been a tremendous influence in my Squidoo life. Not only was she my Team Leader during one of the Giant Squid Challenges and my "coach" during another, I now consider her a cherished friend. If not for her encouragement, I would never have contemplated, much less attempted, striving to achieve Giant Squid status.
    Key Deer
    by DearMatt | video info

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    Key Deer, Odocoileus Virginianus Clavium, an Endangered Species in the Florida Keys, Florida, USA

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    What do You Think of the Little Key Deer?

    • Eurocatsgirl May 13, 2012 @ 4:10 pm | delete
      It is soooo cute and I wish people would stop kiiling them. I dought they even taste good enough or are soft enough to make carpets from their hides. I am 9 and I feel this way! ?+?=?
    • RubyHRose May 11, 2012 @ 1:25 pm | delete
      Pretty amazing little creatures. I have a soft spot for deer, and they me. We see each other in the woods quite often. Yes, continue to find ways to keep them.
    • tagsforkids Oct 4, 2011 @ 8:54 am | delete
      Being in South Florida, I've had the pleasure of seeing the Key Deer in person. sad though that they are endangered, much like the Florida Panther. We continue to hold a good thought that neither will become extinct!
    • imolaK Feb 9, 2011 @ 3:34 am | delete
      Thank you for sharing this lens with us. Blessed.
    • poddys Dec 8, 2010 @ 6:51 am | delete
      We didn't manage to see any Key Deer when we spent a long weekend in the Keys several years ago, but it's great to see that their numbers are now increasing. They are so cute.
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    A Few Places that are Trying To Save the Key Deer

    Key Deer Protection Alliance
    "A group of citizens dedicated to protecting these endearing creatures."
    National Key Deer Refuge
    "Established in 1957 to protect and preserve Key deer and other wildlife resources in the Florida Keys."
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    If You Would Like to Hang with Some Other Endangered Animals, Check These Out

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    Become Part of a Rescue!


    A portion of all proceeds from this article will be sent directly to BuckHawk Center Animal Rescue where Rescue is a Way of Life!

    Find out more about their work and rescues by clicking this link:
    BuckHawk Center Animal Rescue


    The BuckHawk Center is a nonprofit organization providing rescue, rehabilitation and adoption where possible for animals in need, located in Southern Missouri.



    Animal Capshunz: Dis iz Sew Much Fun!


    Moderated by Sylvestermouse
    Updated: 3/3/12




    Information Sources include Wikipedia.com and National Key Deer Refuge

    by

    Sylvestermouse

    I adore all animals and my heart breaks over the many endangered beauties so close to extinction. more »

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