Hallowed

White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists Collection, #10

The White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is Ontario's most iconic and widely distributed large mammal, a graceful and deeply familiar presence in the forests, farmlands, and woodland edges of Grey and Bruce Counties, and has shaped the region's natural and cultural landscape for thousands of years. Highly adaptable and acutely sensitive to their surroundings, White-tailed Deer live in complex social groups led by experienced does whose knowledge of the land, its safe corridors, its seasonal resources, and its hidden places of shelter is passed down through generations in a matriarchal tradition. In Ontario, White-tailed Deer are not listed as a species at risk and are managed as a game species under a regulated hunting season, though their populations fluctuate significantly due to severe winter conditions, vehicle collisions, and the ongoing fragmentation of the forest habitats they depend on. The experience of encountering deer who observe you back with calm and steady eyes is one of Grey and Bruce County's most enchanting wildlife moments.

Reference photography for inspiration was kindly provided by Linda MacKay, thank you!

✨ 15% will be donated to conservation from all OSFN Collection original paintings ✨

In a collaboration to highlight the enjoyment of our backyard wildlife here in Ontario, the Owen Sound Field Naturalists and signature member of Artists for Conservation, Sarah McComb Turbitt, created a challenge to paint as many local species as she can during March 2026. 15% of original artworks, 35% of limited-edition prints, and 50% of artwork cards will be donated to OSFN. The Owen Sound Field Naturalists promotes and fosters learning about nature through their ongoing programs and sponsorships. They support a wide variety of activities, including a Young Naturalists Program, stewardship of many natural heritage properties in Grey Bruce Counties, interpretive signage, presentations by knowledgeable speakers and outdoor excursions with experienced leaders.

All original artwork is hand-signed by Sarah McComb-Turbitt and includes a certificate of authenticity and white cotton gloves for handling the painting upon delivery.