Chinese Water Deer

Hydropotes inermis

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Mammalia · Artiodactyla · Cervidae

About

The water deer is a small deer species native to Korea and China. It has prominent tusks, similar to those of musk deer. It was first described to the Western world by Robert Swinhoe in 1870.

Fun Fact

Chinese water deer are the only deer species with tusks instead of antlers — males grow prominent canine teeth up to 8 cm (3 in) long that they use in fights during the breeding season.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Wetlands and grasslands

Diet

Herbivore

Lifespan

10-12 years

Threats

Urban Expansion
Overgrazing
Invasive Species

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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