Tufted deer

The tufted deer is a small, unique species of deer known for its striking tuft of black hair on its forehead and the fang-like canines found in males. Closely related to the muntjac, these deer are native to central China and northeastern Myanmar. Unfortunately, due to overhunting and habitat loss, they are now considered near-threatened.

Tufted deer are the sole members of the genus Elaphodus and typically inhabit forested mountain regions, often at elevations reaching up to 4,500 meters. This high-altitude habitat makes them challenging to study.

There are four recognized subspecies of tufted deer, each with distinct traits and habitats. These deer possess a coarse coat that changes with the seasons, a tuft of hair on their forehead and neck, and prominent canines in males. They are slightly larger than most muntjac species, standing between 50-70 centimeters at the shoulder and weighing around 17 to 30 kilograms.

Primarily found in China, tufted deer prefer high, moist forests at elevations ranging from 500 to 4,500 meters. They thrive in areas with dense undergrowth, access to freshwater, and salt licks. Typically solitary or found in pairs, these deer are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, and they are known to be territorial. Mating season runs from September to December, with a gestation period of about six months, resulting in one or two offspring per litter.

The main threats to tufted deer include overharvesting, habitat loss, and insufficient legal protection in China. Conservation efforts are underway, with the species receiving provincial protection in many areas and being included in programs aimed at preserving genetic diversity. However, more research is needed to effectively safeguard this species both in the wild and in captivity.