Indian hog deer

Hyelaphus is a genus of small deer native to South and Southeast Asia. These deer, distinguished by their brown coats, are currently facing the threat of extinction. There are three species within this genus, with two being endemic to small islands, underscoring the critical need for their conservation.

Originally, Hyelaphus was categorized as a subgenus of Axis, which includes the well-known chital deer. However, recent genetic research has established that Hyelaphus is more closely related to the Rusa deer. This discovery prompted scientists to reclassify Hyelaphus as its own distinct genus. Consequently, the chital remains the sole species within the Axis genus.