Pere David's Deer
Elaphurus davidianus
Adults are large wetland deer associated with marshes, reedbeds, and damp grasslands, and they are unusually comfortable wading and swimming. They graze on grasses, sedges, reeds, and aquatic vegetation, using broad hooves that help on soft ground. Mature males grow branching antlers and use them in rutting displays, pushing contests, and head-on clashes. The species became extinct in the wild but survived in captivity and has since been reintroduced to protected reserves in China.
- Type
- Horn / Water
- Conservation status
- EW
Growth chain
- ?
- Pere David's Deer