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The endangered Key deer are the smallest of the 28 subspecies of Virginia white-tailed deer. Bucks range from 28-32 inches at the shoulder and weigh an average of 80 lbs. Does stand 24-28 inches at the shoulder and weigh an average of 65 lbs. The last scientific study of the Key deer, part of a 3-year study, was completed in 2000 at which time the entire population of the Key deer is estimated to between 700 and 800. The population on Big Pine Key and No Name Key is estimated to be 600 with another 100 to 200 on other Lower Keys and Backcountry islands.
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