What is the term for the deer raising its tail erect to reveal the white underside?
Answer
Flagging
When a white-tailed deer senses danger, becomes alarmed, or is fleeing, it engages in a behavior known as flagging. This involves raising its tail high into an erect position, which instantly exposes the broad, entirely white underside of the tail. This sudden, bright visual signal serves as an unmistakable warning cue to other nearby deer in the vicinity, prompting them to flee the potential threat. The tail can be held straight up like a flag during rapid escape maneuvers, acting as a highly efficient, built-in communication device across distances and through dense cover.
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