Responsiveness of hand-reared roe deer to odours from skin glands

Abstract:

Odours from skin glands of wild roe deer were blown into the home cage of two 10½-month-old roe deer whilst the behaviour was videotaped. Clear investigatory responses but no avoidance were shown when the metatarsal gland odour was presented. The function of these glands probably concerns individual recognition rather than communication of alarm. Observations of the forehead glands in July and of the effect of their odour provide further evidence for their importance as a means of warning and repelling intruders in a territory. © 1980 Taylor & Francis Ltd.