CHINESE WATER DEER
Hydropotes inermis
DESCRIPTION
Chinese Water Deer (Hydropotes inermis) is a small deer species known for its distinctive tusks, which are elongated canine teeth that protrude from the upper jaw. This species has a stocky build, with a short, dense coat that is typically reddish-brown in color, providing excellent camouflage in its wetland habitats. They are primarily nocturnal and are known for their shy and elusive behavior, often hiding in dense vegetation during the day.
FUN FACTS
- Chinese Water Deer are unique among deer species for their lack of antlers; instead, males have long, sharp tusks that can be used for defense
- | They are excellent swimmers and are often found near water, where they can escape predators by diving into the water and swimming away
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-12 years in the wild, up to 15 in captivity
Average Weight30-50 kg
Average Length0.9-1.2 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in pairs during breeding
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonLate summer to early autumn
- Habitat
- This species inhabits wetlands, marshes, and riverbanks, where they can find ample vegetation for feeding. They prefer areas with dense cover to hide from predators.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Grasslands
- Native Range
- Chinese Water Deer are native to eastern China and parts of Korea, with some populations introduced to the UK.
- Continent
- Asia, Europe
- Countries
- China, Korea, United Kingdom
- Diet
- Chinese Water Deer are herbivores, primarily feeding on a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic plants, grasses, and shrubs. They are particularly fond of tender shoots and leaves.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic plants, grasses, tender shoots
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in pairs during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
30-50 kg
Weight
0.9-1.2 m
Length
0.6-0.9 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- reddish-brown coat with a lighter underbelly
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males have prominent tusks, females do not
- Lifespan
- 10-12 years in the wild, up to 15 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 210 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-2
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Late summer to early autumn
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Chinese Water Deer is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development. Additionally, hunting and poaching can impact local populations.
- Predators
- Main predators include large carnivores such as wolves and leopards, as well as humans.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their ability to remain still and blend into their surroundings to avoid detection.
- Compatible Animals
- none
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon