REEVE'S MUNTJAC
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| Muntiacus reevesi |
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Range:
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East and Southeast Asia (Southern China, Taiwan) |
 This small deer is known as the barking deer because of its vocalizations (they emit a deep barking sound when alarmed or during the breeding season). Found alone or in pairs, the Reeve's muntjac is chiefly nocturnal, but may be active in the morning. It is hunted for its meat and skin.
The male has small antlers that are five to six inches long and are shed annually. Females have small bony knots and tufts of hair where the antlers occur in males. Males and females have elongated upper canine teeth, which curve outward from the lips, forming fangs. A small slit, or opening, is located just in front of the muntjac's eyes. This is a scent gland that secretes a strong-smelling fluid. This is rubbed against plants and other objects to mark the muntjac's territory.
The brown or tan coat blends in well with the shadows of the forest floor, effectively hiding the muntjac. This camouflage is its protection against tigers and leopards that prey upon the muntjac.
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| Habitat: |
Dense vegetation and hilly ranges from sea level to medium elevations |
| Diet: |
Grasses, low growing leaves and tender shoots |
| Status: |
n/a |
| Approximate Dimensions of Adult: |
Height: 16 to 19 inches
Weight: 30 to 40 lbs. |
| Lifespan: |
More than 10 years |
| Reproduction & Offspring: |
Gestation: 6 to 7 months. Offspring: 1 or 2, which reach adult size by 6 to 8 months of age. Young muntjac are born with camouflaging spots which disappear within about six weeks. Mating usually occurs from October to February, and births generally occur from March to August. |
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