22. ~ Deer ~

Deer are four-leggeds of graceful form. They are stronger than they appear. They use their powerful antlers for weapons of defense, and sometimes of offense. However, most times they will run to safety. Deer have a long neck, and a small head which they carry high. Thier ears are large and they have beautiful big eyes. These are graceful, fast moving and alert creatures. The bucks grow antlers, but the 'does' do not. The babies are called fawns. The white-tailed deer are similar to mule deer, but their underneath is white instead of brown. Their life span is about twenty years'. Mule deer have a black tuft on the tail. They are sightly smaller that the white-tailed deer. Both type live in herds. There are about one hundred species of deer. Like the horse, they have their eyes on the sides of their head. They have small bottom teeth. Deer are great jumpers. The are capable of leaping nine to ten feet. They will raise their short tail to warn other deer. During rut (the mating season) the bucks or stags will curl their lips. Bucks mark their territory by removing bark off trees with their antlers. They sleep in deer beds. A spooked deer will take off in a leap and a flash and will generally run for mile to flee from real danger. The fawns are born without a scent, it is nature's way to keep them safe from their many enemies. A very soft and supple leather is made from the hides of deer.

Medicine:

Deer medicine teaches us to be alert. It teaches us to be of a gentle manner in our words and in our actions. Deer medicine teaches to have grace during stressful times. The deer reminds us not to let our guard down when it comes to our safety. The deer teaches to blend in quietly, but at the same time to be true to our own purpose and path. Deer medicine reminds us we can be beautiful without trying to flaunt it. Those with deer as their totem will often remain living or working in the same area. This is the reason the department of highways know where to place their road signs, because these animals generally stay in the same area.