Monday, August 10, 2009

Leaf Muntjac Deer on Red List of Endangered Species

(Image: Alan Rabinowitz / WWF Nepal)
Leaf Muntjac Deer

Also known as the Leaf Deer, the Leaf Muntjac (Muntiacus putaoensis) is only found in the Eastern Himalayas, in the dense forests of Myanmar, in the Hukawng Valley region, northeast of Putao, as it's Latin name suggests.

We know little about the size of the population, except that it is extremely small and in a fragile state, on the verge of extinction.

The Common Muntjac deer (Muntiacus muntjak) is widespread in India and the mature males are recognisable by their protruding tusks.

This species is also becoming more common in the UK, competing with the native deer for food and resources. The Muntjac have historically been imported for display in zoos and parks. Clearly, a number of them have escaped and established breeding colonies.

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