Identification:
Morphologically similar to the lesser mouse-deer, but significantly larger. The hind legs are about one-third longer than the front legs, giving the animal a posture that is higher in the rear and lower in the front, with a hunched back. Both males and females lack antlers and preorbital glands. They weigh 6-10 kg. The coat is thick; the fur is approximately 3 cm long, coarse, slightly stiff, light, and spongy. The base of each hair is white and straight, while the upper portion is wavy and has alternating bands of grey-brown and pale yellow, giving the coat a uniform speckled grey-brown and yellow appearance. The limbs are a darker color.
Males possess a musk gland located between the navel and the genitals and have long canine teeth that protrude from the mouth.
Biology and Ecology:
The species feeds on leaves, shoots, buds, and flowers of forest trees, various grasses, and occasionally fruits; they do not consume animal matter. They also favor cultivated vegetables found in fields and farms.
Reproduction occurs almost year-round, with mating taking place from March to December, primarily concentrated in June, July, and August. Gestation lasts 185-195 days. Parturition occurs starting in September, peaking in December-February. They give birth to one offspring per litter per year.
The species is habitat-specific, found only in limestone mountains at elevations of 400-1000 meters above sea level, with steep and hazardous terrain. They prefer open forests with a developed understory of ferns and are less common in old-growth forests. They are primarily active during twilight hours and dawn, usually resting from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm during the day and from 7:00 pm to 4:00 am at night; they only pair during the estrus period.
Distribution:
- Vietnam: Lạng Sơn, Cao Bằng, Bắc Kạn provinces.
- Worldwide: India, Nepal, Myanmar, Mongolia, China, Russia (Sakhalin), North Korea.
Value:
The species is rare and valuable in Vietnam due to the presence of its musk gland. Musk is an excellent fixative and a valuable medicinal ingredient. They are easily domesticated and can be farmed for musk extraction.
Status:
In Vietnam, this species has a limited distribution, and the population is small. It faces continuous hunting pressure. Over the past decade, the population has decreased by approximately 80% and is still being actively hunted. The species has already become extinct in many areas.
Classification:
Critically Endangered (CR A1d + 2d).
Conservation Measures:
Prohibition of hunting, including the species, is necessary. Listed as E (Extinct) in the Vietnam Red Book, but conservation measures are generally ineffective. While some nature reserves have them, there are no specific reserves dedicated to this species. Enforcement of legal prohibitions against hunting, capture, and trade must be strengthened. Selecting suitable habitats, establishing protected areas, and implementing semi-natural breeding programs are needed (in Cao Bang, Lang Son). Research is needed to develop musk extraction techniques, prohibiting the extraction of natural musk.