Deer are loved and studied for their beautiful appearance and mysterious lifestyle.

However, around the world, some deer species are little known for their unique features and unusual habits.

This article will take a deep look at six peculiar deer species, revealing their biology, habitats, and their roles in the ecosystem.

1. Water Deer

Water Deer differ from ordinary deer; their most notable feature is the absence of horns and the presence of tusk-like incisors, making them look more like rabbits than traditional deer. Water Deer inhabit wetlands and swamps and are adept swimmers.

2. Moose

The Moose, also known as the North American elk, is the largest deer species in North America.

They have a significant size difference from other deer species, and the male Moose's antlers are very wide and flat to accommodate their needs to pursue mates in densely wooded areas. Moose like to live in wetlands and deep forests, and use aquatic plants as their main food source.

3. Muntjac

Muntjac are small deer found mainly in Asia, such as India and Southeast Asia. They are characterized by very short antlers, and sometimes even females have antlers. Muntjacs live in jungles, usually in pairs or small groups, and feed on leaves, twigs, and fruits.

4. Malagasy Dwarf Deer

The Malagasy Dwarf Deer is an extremely rare species, currently found only in small areas on the island of Madagascar.

They are one of the smallest deer species in the world, with adults only about 50 cm tall. Madagascar Dwarf Deer mainly feed on fruits and low plants, and their populations are threatened by the fragility of the island ecosystem.

5. Arabian Gazelle

The Arabian Gazelle, also known as the Arabian Oryx, is a deer species endemic to the Middle East.

They are adapted to life in desert and semi-desert areas, have excellent drought tolerance, and have keen vision and hearing. The Amanchi deer feed on herbs and desert shrubs and are an important member of the desert ecosystem in the Middle East.

6. Javan Rusa

Javan Rusa is a deer species native to Java, Indonesia. They look similar to ordinary deer but have more graceful antlers. Javan Rusa prefers to live in tropical rainforests and shrubs, and their main food sources are leaves, twigs, and herbs.

Conclusion

Deer species, with their diversity and strong adaptability, inhabit various regions globally and play crucial roles in maintaining the balance and stability of local ecosystems.

Despite facing threats such as habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and climate change, some deer species are endangered. Fortunately, ongoing efforts in scientific research and conservation aim to protect these valuable biological resources.