©Amy Lewis

Muntjac deer

The muntjac deer was introduced into the UK from China in the 20th century. It has gained a stronghold in southeast England, where it can cause damage to our woods through browsing.

Scientific name

Muntiacus reevesi

When to see

January to December

Species information

Statistics

Length: 77-91cm
Shoulder height: 45-52cm
Weight: 10-17kg
Average lifespan: 10-13 years

Invasive, non-native species. Protected in the UK under the Deer Act 1991.

Habitats

About

The small, Chinese muntjac deer was introduced to Woburn Park in Bedfordshire at the start of the 20th century and rapidly spread into the surrounding area. It is now a common animal across southeast England and can be found in woodland, parkland and even gardens. Muntjac deer are notorious browsers, eating the shoots from shrubs, as well as woodland herbs and brambles. This clearing of woodland understory has been linked to declines in species such as nightingales.

Male muntjacs have short, unbranched antlers that slope backwards, and a pair of long canine teeth. They breed all year-round, but females usually only have one kid at a time. Muntjac deer are also known as 'barking deer' because of their dog-like calls.

How to identify

A very small, stocky deer, the muntjac deer is about the same size as a medium dog. It is gingery-brown, with a pale underside, darker stripes in its face, and small, single-pointed antlers.

Distribution

Common and increasing in southern England, and spreading northwards.

In our area

Muntjac deer have spread rapidly across Shropshire; their small stature allowing them to move around without being spotted too often. First recorded in the south of the county 20 years ago, they are recorded in woodlands in the Oswestry Hills, around The Stiperstones and as far north as Market Drayton. It is likely that the Muntjac in Shropshire have escaped from local estates, though it is possible that they have travelled here undetected from their strongholds in the southeast.

Did you know?

At least seven species of muntjac are known, from Pakistan to Java and China. Two species were actually introduced into the UK, but the one that got cosy here is the Reeves' muntjac.