GREATER MALAYAN CHEVROTAIN
Tragulus napu
DESCRIPTION
Greater Malayan Chevrotain (Tragulus napu) is commonly known as the Mouse-deer due to its small size and deer-like appearance. This species is characterized by its slender body, short legs, and a distinctive coat that is typically brown with white spots. They are shy and elusive creatures, often found in dense forests where they rely on their excellent camouflage to avoid predators.
FUN FACTS
- Despite their name, Greater Malayan Chevrotains are not true deer but belong to a separate family of mammals
- They are one of the smallest ungulates in the world, often weighing less than a domestic cat
- | Greater Malayan Chevrotains have a unique way of communicating through a series of soft whistles and grunts, which helps them maintain contact with each other in dense forest environments
- Their elusive nature makes them a fascinating subject for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild
Average Weight10-15 kg
Average Length80-100 cm
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in pairs during mating
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks depending on local conditions
- Habitat
- Greater Malayan Chevrotains inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, often favoring areas with dense undergrowth. They are typically found in lowland forests and can also be seen in secondary growth areas.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- This species is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in regions such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and southern Thailand.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand
- Diet
- They primarily feed on leaves, fruits, and other plant materials, foraging on the forest floor. Their diet is supplemented with various types of vegetation, making them selective feeders.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- leaves, fruits
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in pairs during mating
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
10-15 kg
Weight
80-100 cm
Length
- Coloration
- brown coat with white spots
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males have antler-like tusks, females do not
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild
- Gestation Period
- 210 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 6-12 months
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks depending on local conditions
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population 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 logging and agricultural expansion. Additionally, hunting poses a risk in some areas.
- Predators
- Large carnivores such as tigers and leopards, as well as birds of prey.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their camouflage and stealth to avoid detection by predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon