The Cervus elaphus maral, commonly known as the maral deer, is a subspecies of red deer found primarily in the mountainous regions of Central Asia, including parts of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. These deer are characterized by their large size, with males typically weighing between 200 to 300 pounds. They have a distinctive reddish-brown coat that becomes darker in winter. Maral deer are herbivorous and primarily feed on grasses, leaves, and shrubs. They are social animals, often found in herds, especially during the mating season. Their habitat includes forests and alpine meadows, where they can find ample food and shelter from predators.