Chinese Water Deer

The Chinese Water Deer is a small, sturdy deer best known for not having antlers at all. Instead, the males have noticeable curved tusks that stick out from the upper jaw, giving them a unique look compared to other deer in Britain. Their fur is a sandy-brown colour in summer, which becomes thicker and greyer during winter, with a pale belly. Their ears are quite large and rounded. They come from eastern China and Korea, but now there are groups living in parts of eastern England and in various places around the country. They like areas with thick plants, especially places with reeds, tall grass, and overgrown waterside areas. They can also be found at the edges of woods and on farmland, as long as there is enough cover. They mostly live alone and are active at dawn and dusk. Because they are shy and prefer to stay hidden in thick bushes, they can be hard to spot.