Key Deer Awareness Day is observed annually on March 11 to raise awareness about the endangered key deer, a small species related to the Virginia white-tailed deer found exclusively in the Florida Keys. This day highlights the threats faced by key deer, including poaching, habitat loss, vehicular accidents, illnesses, and climate change. The date was chosen to commemorate when the key deer was designated as an endangered species. Efforts to protect these deer include the establishment of the National Key Deer Refuge and stricter laws against poaching, as well as measures to prevent vehicular accidents involving the deer. Currently, the population of key deer is around 1,000, primarily residing in Big Pine Key and No Name Keys. The observance of this day encourages public engagement in conservation efforts for this unique species.