Cervus elaphus; Print; The red deer (Cervus elaphus) is one of the largest deer species. The red deer inhabits most of Europe; the Caucasus Mountains region; Asia Minor; Iran; parts of western Asia; and central Asia. It also inhabits the Atlas Mountains region between Morocco and Tunisia in northwestern Africa; being the only species of deer to inhabit Africa. Red deer have been introduced to other areas; including Australia; New Zealand; United States; Canada; Peru; Uruguay; Chile and Argentina. In many parts of the world; the meat (venison) from red deer is used as a food source.; antlers