ELD'S DEER
Rucervus eldii
DESCRIPTION
Eld's Deer (Rucervus eldii) is commonly known as the Brow-antlered Deer due to the unique shape of its antlers, which are flattened and have a distinctive brow tine. This species is characterized by its slender body, long legs, and a reddish-brown coat that can appear grayish in some individuals. Eld's Deer is primarily found in wetland habitats and is known for its shy and elusive behavior, often forming small groups or remaining solitary in dense vegetation.
FUN FACTS
- Eld's Deer is known for its unique antler structure, which is unlike that of most other deer species, making it a subject of interest for researchers
- | This species has a very limited range and is often found in specific wetland areas, making it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes and habitat loss
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
Average Weight70-120 kg
Average Length1.5-2.0 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social StructureEld's Deer can be found either solitary or in small groups, typically consisting of females and their young.
Activity PatternCrepuscular
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks in the rainy season
- Habitat
- Eld's Deer inhabits marshy areas, riverine forests, and grasslands, often near water sources. They prefer habitats with dense cover for protection from predators.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Grassland, Forest
- Native Range
- Eld's Deer is native to the river valleys and floodplains of Southeast Asia.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam
- Diet
- Eld's Deer primarily feeds on grasses, leaves, and aquatic plants, making it well-adapted to its wetland habitat.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, leaves, aquatic plants
- Social Structure
- Eld's Deer can be found either solitary or in small groups, typically consisting of females and their young.
- Activity Pattern
- Crepuscular
- Group Size
- 1-10
- Territorial
- 0
EN
VU
70-120 kg
Weight
1.5-2.0 m
Length
0.9-1.1 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- reddish-brown coat with lighter underparts
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are larger and have antlers, while females are smaller and antlerless.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
- Gestation Period
- 210 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks in the rainy season
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Eld's Deer is currently declining due to habitat loss and hunting.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Less than 1,000 individuals
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats to Eld's Deer include habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization, as well as poaching for their antlers and meat.
- Conservation Program
- Various conservation programs are in place, including habitat restoration and anti-poaching efforts.
- Predators
- Tigers, leopards, and large birds of prey are known predators of Eld's Deer.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Eld's Deer relies on its agility and ability to hide in dense vegetation to evade predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon