Muntjac deer

The Reeves Muntjac, sometimes known as the Barking Deer because of the noise it makes, were introduced to the British Isles from South East Asia during the nineteenth century. They have since become one of the most widespread deer in the UK.

The Muntjac appears rather ungainly compared to the Roe Deer. It usually looks hunched with its rump higher than its shoulders. It has large eyes and a long tail which is held upright when alarmed.

 

The fawn is born after a seven month gestation period. Its coat is light brown with white spots running in lines down its back. These spots disappear after about eight weeks and the coat darkens.

These beautiful creatures can be very destructive with garden plants, eating almost anything that is planted in the garden. We have spent years trying to find garden flowers that these deer do not eat. See our article "Plants that Deer don't Eat".