Capreolus

Capreolus is a genus of deer commonly known as roe deer. The genus name Capreolus derives from Latin, potentially meaning "ibex" or "chamois." Roe deer are closely related to water deer and moose. They evolved from the genus Procapreolus and first emerged in Europe approximately 600,000 years ago. During the Last Glacial Period, their distribution in Europe fluctuated, with populations retreating to southern refugia and re-expanding after the glaciation. By the Late Neolithic, roe deer had become widespread due to habitat changes resulting from human agricultural activities.