Details
Elaphurus davidianus
Pere David's deer is a mammal associated with grasslands and freshwater habitats. It is herbivorous and herd-forming. Conservation centers on captive populations and possible reintroduction.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
Its range is represented here by the Palearctic, where it uses grasslands and freshwater habitats. Mobile species may shift habitat use with season, breeding sites, or food availability.
Typical length 180-220 cm, weight 135 kg-200 kg. It has a hoofed ungulate body plan, with proportions shaped by its habitat and mode of movement.
It is mostly active by day and herd-forming. Spacing, group size, and visibility can change with season, feeding conditions, and breeding activity.
It is herbivorous. Food choice and foraging style are tied to life in grasslands and freshwater habitats, so movements often follow available food resources.
As a mammal, it gives birth to live young, and the mother nurses them in cover or within the social group.
Recorded scientifically as Elaphurus davidianus. Conservation centers on captive populations and possible reintroduction. In this guide, size, habitat, and activity pattern are useful first clues for recognition.
