Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Artiodactyla
- Family
- Cervidae
- Genus
- Rucervus
- Species
- eldii
- Subspecies
- siamensis
Habitat
This species primarily inhabits tall grasslands, swamps, and forested areas near water sources in Southeast Asia, including parts of Thailand, Myanmar, and India. They prefer wetland environments with dense vegetation for cover and are often found in areas with seasonal flooding. These habitats provide both food and protection from predators.
Diet
The Thai brow-antlered deer feeds mainly on grasses, aquatic plants, leaves, and shoots. They are grazers and browsers, often foraging in the early morning and late evening to avoid the heat of the day. Feeding behavior includes selecting tender vegetation near water sources for hydration and nutrition.
Behavior
Thai brow-antlered deer are typically solitary or form small groups, especially females with fawns, and are most active during dawn and dusk. They exhibit territorial behavior in males during the mating season, marking areas with scent glands. These deer are strong swimmers and often seek refuge in water to evade threats, showing cautious and alert movements in open areas.
Conservation Status
The IUCN status is Endangered, with populations declining due to habitat loss from agriculture and poaching for meat and antlers. Major threats include fragmentation of wetlands and human encroachment.