Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Mammal
- Order
- Artiodactyla
- Family
- Tragulidae
- Genus
- Tragulus
Habitat
This species inhabits dense tropical forests and thick undergrowth in Thailand and possibly parts of Malaysia. It prefers lowland and hilly areas with abundant vegetation for cover. Geographic range is limited to Southeast Asia, where it avoids open areas.
Diet
Williamson's mouse-deer primarily feeds on leaves, fruits, and shoots from shrubs and low vegetation. It is a browser that forages mainly at night to avoid predators. Feeding behavior includes selective eating of nutrient-rich plants in dense forest areas.
Behavior
Williamson's mouse-deer is primarily solitary or found in pairs, with males being territorial and marking areas with scent glands. It is nocturnal, active during the night to forage and avoid detection. Notable behaviors include freezing in place when threatened and relying on camouflage for evasion. Social interactions are minimal, with little group formation.
Conservation Status
Williamson's mouse-deer is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat loss from deforestation and hunting. Population trends are declining, with major threats including fragmentation of forest habitats.