The water deer, or the vampire deer as it is called, is a magical creature that lives in amazing water worlds. It embodies the spirit of stillness and elegance at the same time, showing us how nature can create forms beyond imagination.
The water gazelle is one of the friendly animals that has received great attention from researchers into the secrets of nature, as it is characterized by great agility that enables it to swim with harmonious movements.
In this article from teketrek, we will learn together about the special magic that this aquatic deer enjoys, in terms of habitat, food, reproduction, and many other details. All you have to do is take some time to read the most important information contained.
About the water deer
Water deer (Hydropotes inermis) scientific classification,
Kingdom: Animalia.
Phylum: Chordata.
Class: Mammalia.
Order: Artiodactyla.
Family: Deeridae.
Genus: Hydropotes.
Species: Chinese water deer.
Higher kingdom: Nematoda.
Higher kingdom: Nematoda
The water deer is somewhat similar to the water deer, the deer from which musk is extracted, but it is distinguished from others by several formal characteristics, which are embodied in the following:
Water deer do not have antlers for defense and display.
The male waterbuck has a pair of prominent teeth, and as a result is known as the vampire. It should be noted that females have shorter tusks.
The water deer has a russet coat, which turns to light gray when winter arrives.
The water deer has a short tail that is between 6 and 7.5 cm long.
The water deer is known for its face that somewhat resembles that of small bears, and for its small ears.
The length of the water gazelle ranges between 0.7 and 1 m, while its height at the shoulder ranges from 45 to 55 cm.
The weight of the male water deer ranges between 11-14 kg, and the weight of the female ranges between 8-11 kg.
The water deer has large, round eyes that help it see its environment accurately.
Young water deer are known for their dark brown colour, while the white dots spread across the body disappear as they grow.
What we mentioned in the previous points are some of the physical characteristics that the water deer has, which help it survive and adapt in the environments in which it lives.
Habitat of the Water Deer
It was widespread during the Ice Age and Holocene periods, where its traces were found in Inner Mongolia, eastern Tibet in the west, the Japanese Archipelago, eastern and southern China, as well as northern Vietnam in the south.
It was also observed in South Korea, Britain, France, Russia and the United Kingdom.
It was imported to be placed in one of the parks, but when it left it, it increased and spread in it.
It is known that this creature prefers to live in delta areas, tall reed forests, areas with abundant greenery and grasses, and it also prefers to live in swamps and river banks.
Diseases to which water deer are exposed
Various deer are exposed to some health problems and diseases that may also affect water deer, including the following:
Foot-and-mouth disease: Water deer infected with this disease leads to dehydration and heart failure, which is caused by lingual muscle changes.
Deer herpes virus: It is a neurological disease that causes inflammation of the brain, and it may occur without symptoms as it eats and necroses nerve cells.
Tuberculosis (TB).
Epidemic skin disease that causes bleeding in blood vessels.
Arthritis
Reproduction stages of water deer
The waterbuck breeding season begins in November and December, when the male waterbuck attracts the female by displaying mating behavior. It should be noted that there is no accurate number of births, but it is possible for a female deer to give birth, and this is normal for this species.
The pregnancy period lasts about 7-8 months. The mother takes care of her young, protects them, and nourishes them until they are able to survive on their own and rely on themselves, knowing that the young of this deer grow rapidly and acquire survival skills from an early age.
It is worth noting that during the mating stage of the water deer, both males and females undergo crucial hormonal changes and changes in the reproductive organs before the breeding season.
Her pregnancy can only be known when a bulge begins to appear in the lower side of the abdomen.
FAQs about water deer
Why are they called water deer?
The water deer is called by this name because it prefers to live near water sources such as rivers, streams, swamps and brooks.
How long does a water deer live?
Water deer live about 10-15 years, and can live longer in protected environments.
Are the water deer threatened with extinction?
Yes, this deer is considered an endangered animal, as a result of the loss of its natural habitats and the deterioration of the environment in which it lives.
What is the Water deer diet?
The Water deer diet is on grasses, plants, fruits and insects for its diet as a source of energy and nutrients.
What are the types of water deer?
There are two types of this deer known:
Chinese water deer
Korean deer (Korean water deer)
Depending on the region in which it is located.
Do water deer like to swim?
Yes, the water gazelle is a skilled swimmer in rivers in order to reach the islands near its locations.
How much time does a water deer need to sleep?
Deer are known to sleep for short periods of time, estimated at 5 minutes at a time, that is, only an hour in a 24-hour period.
What animals pose a threat to deer?
All deer, including water deer, may be exposed to life-threatening danger from some predatory animals, most notably hyenas, leopards, red foxes, in addition to gray wolves, wild dogs, and jackals.
Do water deer eat meat؟
No, the water deer is herbivore animal.
Are water deer dangerous?
Yes, water deer is harmful animal.
In conclusion, the water gazelle lives in its own environment to which it has adapted. We have found that through its unique lifestyle, it reflects the extent of its adaptation to its environment and its use of available resources. It is a wonderful model of endeavour and determination and an important addition to the natural world.
