A Case of Polydactyly in a Roe Deer ( Capreolus capreolus ) From Germany

ABSTRACT

Polydactyly is a rare anomaly that has been described in many vertebrate species including several deer species. The case described in this communication is believed to be only the second documented example of additional metatarsae in roe deer ( Capreolus capreolus ). In addition to normally developed digits III and IV and the dewclaws, a right hind foot of an adult female from Germany had two additional digits lateral to digit V. Both originated from additional metatarsal elements. This case offers significant insights into the developmental plasticity of the cervid limb and extends the morphological spectrum of cervid polydactyly.