White-tailed deer

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Overview:

A recent study has found widespread infection of white-tailed deer with the SARS-CoV-2 virus across the U.S. State of New York.

Key facts about White-tailed deer:

  • They are the smallest members of the North American deer family.
  • Scientific name: Odocoileus virginianus
  • Distribution: They are found in North America from southern Canada through Central America.
  • Habitat
  • Includes areas along streams and rivers, mixed woodlands, farms, forests, and burned shrub fields
  • Open areas are used only when thick shrubs or forests are nearby.
  • Features
  • It is tan or brown in the summer and grayish brown in winter.
  • It has white on its throat, around its eyes and nose,  on its stomach, and on the underside of its tail.
  • Only male deer grow antlers, which are shed each year.
  • They are excellent runners. They can run at speeds of up to 30 miles an hour.
  • IUCN Status: ‘Least Concern

 


Q1) What is SARS-CoV-2?

SARS-CoV-2 is a member of a large family of viruses called coronaviruses. These viruses can infect people and some animals. SARS-CoV-2 was first known to infect people in 2019.

Source: Deers maybe reservoir for old SARS-CoV-2 variants