Muntjac

Muntiacus muntjak 50960281

Barking Deer - Kolkata 2011-05-03 2409

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Barking deer skeleton

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Metaphase spread of the Indian muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak vaginalis)

Muntjac, also known as barking deer, are small deer species belonging to the genus Muntiacus. Muntjacs are among the oldest deer, with fossil records stretching back to 15–35 million years ago, found in Miocene deposits in Europe, Asia, and North America. Today, they are predominantly found in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and some parts of Southern China. They are noted for their remarkable adaptability to various environments, from dense forests to shrublands.

Description

Muntjacs have a distinctive appearance with short antlers for the males, which can regrow, and elongated canine teeth that protrude from the mouths of males, resembling tusks. These features are used in territorial fights and for defense. They have a reddish-brown to dark brown coat, and their size can vary significantly among species, from the small Reeves's Muntjac weighing around 10-18 kg to the larger Indian Muntjac that can weigh up to 34 kg. Muntjacs are known for their soft, bark-like calls, which is the origin of their common name, "barking deer."

Behavior

Muntjacs are solitary or live in small family groups. They are primarily diurnal, with peaks of activity during dawn and dusk. Their diet consists mainly of herbs, blossoms, succulent shoots, fungi, berries, and sometimes tree bark. Muntjacs are territorial animals, with males marking their territory with secretions from scent glands located near their eyes and on their feet.

Reproduction

The reproductive cycle of muntjacs is unique among deer, as they do not have a fixed breeding season. Females can conceive again within a few days after giving birth, leading to a high reproductive rate. Gestation lasts about 210 days, and usually, a single fawn is born. This ability to reproduce throughout the year has contributed to their success in various habitats.

Conservation

The conservation status of muntjac species varies. While some, like the Reeves's Muntjac, have adapted well to human-altered environments and even expanded their range, others, such as the Giant Muntjac and the Sumatran Muntjac, are classified as endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and poaching. Conservation efforts are in place in various countries to protect their habitats and regulate hunting.

Invasive Species

The Reeves's Muntjac, in particular, has been introduced to other parts of the world, such as the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, where it has become an invasive species. Their presence in non-native habitats can lead to competition with local wildlife for resources and can have detrimental effects on local flora due to their feeding habits.

Cultural Significance

In their native countries, muntjacs have cultural significance in folklore and are sometimes kept as pets. However, their role in the ecosystem as browsers helps in the natural pruning of vegetation, which can stimulate new growth and maintain healthy forests.