REEVES'S MUNTJAC
Muntiacus reevesi
DESCRIPTION
Reeves's Muntjac, also known as the barking deer, is a small deer species native to Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its distinctive bark-like call and small size, making it one of the smallest deer species.
FUN FACTS
- Reeves's Muntjac can bark like a dog when alarmed | They have a unique ability to adapt to various habitats | Muntjacs are one of the oldest deer species, dating back millions of years
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight10-25 kg
Average Length0.9-1.2 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary or in pairs, typically seen alone or with a mate.
Activity PatternCrepuscular
Breeding SeasonYear-round, peaks in spring and autumn
- Habitat
- This species inhabits dense forests, scrublands, and grasslands. They prefer areas with plenty of cover for hiding from predators.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like China, Vietnam, and Thailand.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- China, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar
- Diet
- Reeves's Muntjac primarily feeds on leaves, fruits, and shoots. They are known to browse on a variety of vegetation, adapting their diet based on seasonal availability.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- leaves, fruits, shoots
- Social Structure
- solitary or in pairs, typically seen alone or with a mate.
- Activity Pattern
- Crepuscular
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
10-25 kg
Weight
0.9-1.2 m
Length
0.5-0.7 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- reddish-brown coat with lighter underparts and white markings.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males have antlers, while females do not.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 210 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, peaks in spring and autumn
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- Population is currently stable but faces habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction and hunting. Deforestation and agricultural expansion are significant concerns.
- Predators
- Large carnivores such as tigers and leopards.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on camouflage and their ability to remain still to avoid detection.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon