Distinctive antler morphology in European roe deer: implications for evolution, conservation and game management

This study presents the first comprehensive morphometric analysis of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) antlers from a wide range of European populations, including southern, central and northern Spain, Tuscany (Italy), and several Eastern European regions. A total of 751 antlers were measured, covering most of the species’ distribution in continental Spain. Our results show significant morphometric differences in antlers between the Andalusian roe deer population (southern Spain) and those from central and northern Spain, Tuscany, and Eastern Europe. The Andalusian roe deer exhibited smaller and thicker antlers with shorter tines, reflecting a distinctive morphology likely linked to long-term geographic isolation in the southernmost mountains of the Iberian Peninsula. These distinctive traits coincide with previously reported genetic and cranial differentiations, reinforcing the recognition of the Andalusian roe deer as an Evolutionarily Significant Unit within the European range. The ecological and game management implications of these results are discussed, particularly the need to prevent uncontrolled translocations that might compromise the genetic and morphological identity of this southern population.