All About Muntjacs - Muntjac Deer Facts & Information

Muntjacs are a small, non native species with short antlers that were introduced to the UK from China in the early 20th century, they belong to the deer family. They are now common in the Southern England. There are at least seven species of Muntjac deer.

Appearance of the 'Barking Deer'

In the UK, the Chinese Muntjac Deer (Muntiacus reevesi), also known as Reeves' muntjac, is a small, stocky deer with a distinctive appearance. 

They stand about 45-52 cm (18-20 inches) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 10-18 kg (22-40 lbs) - about the same size as a fox!

Their coat is typically reddish-brown in summer and darker brown in winter, with a pale underside. 

The male Muntjac has a short, straight unbranched antlers and prominent tusks (long canine teeth), which they use for defense and territorial disputes. 

Muntjacs are known for their secretive and generally solitary nature, often hiding in dense undergrowth. When disturbed, they emit a loud, bark-like alarm call, earning them the nickname "barking deer." They are most active during dawn and dusk but can also be seen during the day.

Lifespan

In the UK, muntjacs have an average lifespan of 10-12 years in the wild. However, in areas with fewer predators and ample food resources, they can live longer. In captivity, they may live up to 16-20 years. 

Their lifespan is influenced by factors such as habitat quality, food availability, and human activities like road traffic, which is a significant cause of mortality for Muntjacs in the UK.

Diet

Muntjacs in the UK are highly adaptable feeders with a varied diet. They primarily browse on leaves, shoots, and herbs, but they also eat fruits, berries, and bark. 

In gardens and wooded areas, they are known to feed on ornamental plants, crops, and young trees, which can sometimes bring them into conflict with us humans.

Habitat

Muntjacs were introduced to the UK in the early 20th century and have since become widespread, particularly in England and parts of Wales. They thrive in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, hedgerows, and even suburban gardens. 

Their preference for dense undergrowth and their ability to adapt to fragmented habitats have allowed them to establish themselves successfully. They are often found in areas with thick cover, which provides protection from predators and harsh weather.

Breeding

Muntjacs in the UK are unique among deer species for their ability to breed year-round. Females can conceive again within days of giving birth, leading to a rapid reproductive cycle. 

After a gestation period of about 7 months, a single fawn is born, twins are rare. Fawns are weaned after 2-3 months and reach sexual maturity at around 6-12 months. This high reproductive rate has contributed to their rapid population growth and spread across the UK.

Threats & Predators

In the UK, Muntjacs have few natural predators, as larger predators like wolves and lynx are no longer present. However, they are sometimes preyed upon by foxes or domestic dogs, particularly young or vulnerable individuals.

The main threats to muntjacs in the UK are human-related, including road traffic accidents, habitat fragmentation, and culling efforts to control their population. 

Muntjacs are considered an invasive species in the UK due to their impact on native vegetation and woodland ecosystems. Their browsing habits can prevent the regeneration of trees and shrubs, leading to changes in biodiversity, and reduce the food sources available for the native Roe Deer.

Despite these challenges, their adaptability and high reproductive rate have made them one of the most widespread and resilient deer species in the UK.

Five Fun Facts about Muntjacs 

1. Muntjacs are often called "barking deer" because of their unique alarm call, which sounds like a loud, sharp bark. This distinctive sound is used to alert others of danger and can be heard over long distances.

2. Unlike most deer, muntjacs have elongated canine teeth (tusks) that protrude from their mouths, especially in males. These tusks are used for defense and territorial fights, making them one of the few deer species with such a feature.

3. Muntjacs are one of the few deer species that can breed throughout the year. Females can conceive again just days after giving birth, allowing them to produce offspring at any time, which contributes to their rapid population growth.

4. Muntjacs are among the oldest known deer species, with fossil records dating back 15-35 million years. They have remained relatively unchanged over millions of years, making them a living example of an ancient deer lineage.

5. Muntjacs are incredibly adaptable and have successfully established themselves in non-native regions, such as the UK, where they were introduced in the early 20th century. Their ability to thrive in various habitats, including urban areas, has made them one of the most widespread deer species in the UK.