Introduction: the enigmatic roe deer. Roe deer Capreolus capreolus are among the most fascinating and iconic wild mammals found across the United Kingdom. They are known for their elusive nature, striking appearance, and ability to adapt to a variety of environments. Unlike their larger deer relatives, such as red deer, roe deer are small, solitary, and highly selective about their habitat. Despite their relatively common presence in Britain today, their journey through history has been anything but straightforward. Their population has fluctuated dramatically due to factors such as hunting, habitat destruction, and conservation efforts