Skip to: Content
Skip to: Site Navigation
Skip to: Search

September 5, 2008 10:46:35 PM CDT

Learn about Newser Points »

« Back to the grid | Next story »

'Unicorn' Deer Spotted in Italy

Posted Jun 11, 08 6:02 PM CDT in World,  Science & Health 

(Newser) – A deer with a single horn in the center of its head has been spotted in an Italian nature preserve, triggering speculation that such anomalies may have helped give rise to unicorn myths, the AP reports. Experts say the year-old deer, born in captivity and nicknamed “Unicorn,” likely has a genetic flaw or experienced trauma early in its life.    

Deer with just one antler are unusual but not unheard-of; it's the horn's central position that makes it rare. "This is fantasy becoming reality," said a park official at Italy's Center of Natural Sciences in Prato. "This shows that even in past times, there could have been animals with this anomaly. It's not like they dreamed it up."

Source Associated Press

0 comments | Print E-mail | Digg Seed this on Newsvine Add this link to Del.icio.us StumbleUpon
A one-year-old Roe Deer - nicknamed "Unicorn'' - in an Italian nature preserve is believed to have been born with a genetic flaw; his twin has two horns.   (AP Photo/Center of Natural Sciences)
Experts say anomalies like a one-horned deer sighted in Italy may have inspired unicorn myths.   (Archive Photos)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
Our editors also recommend:

Threads (1 of 1)

Tags

Italy  • animal  • parks  • deer  • mythical creature


Loading...

Premium Articles from HighBeam

Find more articles like this

Today's Most Popular


Other Science & Health Stories

What is Newser?

2008 Codie Finalist

Newser gives you more news in less time. We search for the best and most important stories all over the web, read them for you, and deliver concise and sharp summaries—along with links to the full text. Newser provides a way to stay on top of an ever-expanding horizon of news and opinion—politics, sports, business, trends, technology, personalities, crimes, and controversies. Newser keeps you not just better informed, but, with our signature graphic interface and smart condensed format, more enjoyably informed.

Learn more »