Philippine Spotted Deer
Rusa alfredi
Conservation Status
EndangeredMammalia · Artiodactyla · Cervidae
About
The Visayan spotted deer, also known as the Visayan deer, the Philippine spotted deer or Prince Alfred's deer, is a small, endangered, primarily nocturnal species of deer found in the rainforests of the Visayan Islands of Panay and Negros. It once was found across other islands, such as Cebu, Guimaras, Leyte, Masbate, and Samar. It is one of three endemic deer species found in the Philippines, although it was not recognized as a separate species until 1983. An estimated 2,500 mature individuals survived worldwide in 1996, according to the IUCN; today's surviving wild number is uncertain. The diet of the deer, which consists of a variety of different types of grasses, leaves, and buds within the forest, is the primary indicator of its habitat. Since 1991, the range of the species has severely decreased and is now almost co-extensive with that of the Visayan warty pig.
Fun Fact
The Visayan deer is small and short-legged, but it is the largest endemic species of deer among the Philippine islands.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Habitat is in dense cogon grassland, and primary and secondary forest.
Diet
Diet of the deer, which consists of a variety of different types of grasses, leaves, and buds within the forest, is the primary indicator of its habitat.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Loss
- Poaching and Hunting
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Disease