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 Reeve's muntjac in its natural surroundings, low shrubs, at the Utica Zoo. |
The Reeve's muntjac is a small, dainty member of the deer family. These animals live mainly in Eastern Asia, in the coniferous forest biome and in some deciduous forest regions. These small, yet fierce animals come together in small groups, and the doe usually with their young. Their diet usually consists of grasses, tender leaves, and shoots. At the the peak of growth, they usually reach heights around 3'-3.5' and can weigh anywhere from 20-30 lbs. These strange animals can emit a deep barking noise, similar to the sound of a large dog barking when it is alarmed. They are also not protected or endangered in any way.
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At the zoo, the muntjac was very skittish and shy and was often trying to hide from our cameras. It stayed with its fellow muntjacs and made its low distress call often. The muntjac was virtually always out of our site and avoided our glances. The muntjac seemed very small in height but somewhat old in its facial qualities. |
The Reeve's muntjac lives in a large animal food web in its coniferous forest biome. It does not hibernate in any way and remains active throughout the winter, collecting berries and bark to eat. It makes its home out of pine boughs and other large branches that are lying around, or get blown down in a winter or summer storm.
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The Reeve's muntjac's small antlers are of no benefit to it, but it has two very large teeth. Its two very large canines are used for tearing food but are mainly used in competition for females. |
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The destruction and pollution of the coniferous forests has not had any short term effects on the Reeve's muntjac, but factories producing acid rain are polluting streams and lakes they drink from. |
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"Muntjac" Academic American Encyclopedia. 1995 ed. Abeles, Elvin. "The Muntjac." Collier's Encyclopedia. 1993 ed. |