Key deer on Big Pine Key

Just across the bridge from our campground sits Big Pine Key, home to the smallest deer in the US. Key deer are easily recognized, they are much smaller than other white-tailed deer. Bucks usually weigh 55–75 lb. and stand about 30 in tall at the shoulder. Adult females weigh between 44 and 64 lb. and have an average height of 26. They generally resembles other white-tailed deer in appearance.

Living close to humans, the Key deer has little natural fear of humans. It is not unusual to see them on No Name Key, and northern areas of Big Pine Key. Key deer easily swim between islands.