Muntjac deer were introduced to Woburn Park, Bedfordshire in the early 20th Century. Since then many escapees have reproduced and expanded their populations outwards. Muntjacs were also introduced to parks in Hertfordshire and Northamptonshire.

Life span
Up to 19 years.

Statistics
Body length: 90cm, Shoulder height: 45-52cm, Weight: 12-15kg.

Physical description
Muntjacs are small deer, with dark red-brown fur and white patches on the chin, throat and rump. Males have small antlers (max 15cm) that point backwards, and females have tufts of hair in place of antlers. These deer also have tusks, which are actually extended upper canine teeth. The female's tusks are shorter than the male's. Males have a V-shaped marking running from their forehead to their nose.

Distribution
Muntjacs are native to SE China and Taiwan, but they have been introduced to parks in England and France. In England, they are restricted to the south of the country.

Habitat
Their preferred habitat is woodland.

Diet
Muntjacs are browsers, and feed on shrubs, shoots, grass and shoots. They sometimes cause damage by stripping bark from trees.

Behaviour
Unlike many other species of deer, muntjacs are solitary, but small groups may sometimes gather at feeding areas. They tend to occupy territories of around 14 hectares, which they rarely leave.

Muntjacs bark when disturbed and in the case of females (does), when in season. They are active both day and night, but the main feeding periods are dawn, dusk and in the middle of the day.

Reproduction
Muntjacs breed throughout the year. The gestation period is 210 days and the fawn is weaned after 8 weeks.

Conservation status
Reeves' muntjacs are not considered to be endangered.