TABLE OF CONTENTS - National Zoo

WESTERN TUFTED DEER
(Elaphodus cephalophus cephalophus)
Herbivore
Description: The western tufted deer is a dainty deer with a body covered in coarse,
spinelike hairs that give it a shaggy appearance. The general color of the upper
parts is deep chocolate brown, the underparts are white, and the head and neck are
gray. The antlers of this species are almost completely hidden by the tuft on the
forehead. Both sexes “bark” when suddenly alarmed (also during the mating
season).
Teeth: Deer species have no upper incisors and three pairs of lower incisors. They
have 0-1 pair of canines in both jaws. The male western tufted deer’s upper canine
teeth are elongated into tusks, which curve strongly outward from the lips; they are
thus capable of inflicting serious injuries to dogs and other animals. They have three
pairs of premolars and molars in both the upper and lower jaws, for a total of 32-34
teeth. The surfaces of their molars have a smooth texture.
Diet: The diet includes grasses and other vegetation.
Range: The single species occurs in eastern and southern China, and in northern
Burma.
Habitat: The tufted deer inhabits areas of dense vegetation at elevations of 900-
2600 meters, and is said always to be found near water.
Social Organization: They are usually solitary, but occasionally they travel in pairs.
Conservation Status: Very little is known about the occurrence and habits of this
elusive deer species and its status in the wild is not certain. The knowledge gained
by the study and breeding of this species in zoos will be crucial in conserving them in
the future.
Source: Nowak, Ronald M. and John L. Paradiso. Walker’s Mammals of the World.
4th edition, Volume II. Baltimore, MD: The Johns Hopkins University Press, 1983.
Pages 1202-1204.
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