Key deer are the smallest species of deer in the Mazes. They are genetically considered a miniature version of the [[white-tailed deer]]. Like all deer, adult males are known as ''bucks'', adult females are ''does'', and all juveniles (under 1-year-old) are called ''fawns''. An average adult key deer stands at about 30 inches at the shoulder and rarely weighs more than 70 lbs.
The name "key deer" comes from an old folklore legend surrounding these miniature deer, which were said to grow key-shaped antlers. Some versions of the legend say that if a key deer grows old enough, its antlers could eventually open any door. To prevent them from making their way past your door, the legend recommended hanging [[mechanical key|keys ]] on keyrings on these antlers, so that they could use them instead. Other versions state that putting keys on a key deer's antlers was a good luck charm to prevent unwanted visits.
In either case, key bucks are often found with [[mechanical key|keys ]] stuck in their antlers, either due to people who truly believe in the legend, or as a cruel prank. Even does aren't spared from the prank; some are found with collars made of aluminum or galvanized steel wire on which random keys have been found.
As they are deer, the meat of a key deer is referred to as venison, and has about the same delicious, gamey taste as its larger counterparts. They are often sought after by beginner hunters or people armed with lower-powered weapons, as they are relatively easy to kill, fearful of conflict, and even if cornered, rarely inflict serious injuries.
[[Category:Creatures]]