Identification
The Eld’s deer (Rucervus eldii) is the largest species in the Cervidae family, weighing 150-200 kg and with a body length of 1,800-2,000 mm. Its coat is thick, with fine, long hairs that are brown on the flanks and rump, grey or greyish-black on the back and chest, and dirty white on the belly and the inner surfaces of the legs. Male Eld’s deer possess antlers (horns) with three branches. The first branch forms a large acute angle with the main branch. The antlers are large, rough, multi-branched, and have numerous tubercles.
Biology and Ecology
Eld’s deer inhabit various forest habitats: sparse forests, deciduous forests, and secondary forests bordering grasslands. High densities are observed in forest areas near streams and low hills. They are not found at elevations above 1,000 m. Their home range is extensive, covering 4-5 km², and is relatively stable. Eld’s deer live in herds or are solitary, and are nocturnal foragers. They prefer areas away from human settlements. They can forage in the early morning and late evening. In areas with heavy hunting pressure, they forage later in the night (23:00-24:00).
Their diet consists of grasses, seedlings, shrubs, regenerating plants, and fallen fruits. In captivity, they consume 20-25 kg of grass and leaves per day. Reproduction occurs primarily in the autumn and spring. The gestation period is approximately 8 months. They give birth to one offspring per litter, annually. Calves are born healthy and nurse for about 6 months, reaching sexual maturity at 2 years old.
Distribution
Global: Southeast Asia, China, Assam, Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Philippines.
Vietnam: Previously found throughout provinces with forests, the species is now restricted to along the western border, from the Northwest to the Southeast region, and is still relatively abundant in Cat Tien National Park.
Use Value
The Eld’s deer has value for scientific research and is kept for display in zoos and parks.
Conservation Status
Due to overhunting and habitat loss, the Eld’s deer has been extirpated in the Northeast region of Vietnam and is rare in the Northwest and Central regions. The population remains relatively abundant in the Central Highlands and Southeast regions.
The species is currently not listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book and Decree 18 HĐBT. It should be included with a conservation status of Least Concern (LC) and require better management of wild populations. The Eld’s deer can be raised in captivity, and the development of deer farming is recommended.