Chinese Water Deer (Hydropotes Inermis) - Not Currently Found In Sussex

Chinese Water Deer By M Rose

The Chinese Water Deer (Hydropotes inermis) is a unique deer species that brings a touch of the exotic to the verdant expanses of Sussex, Surrey, and Hampshire. Known for their distinctive tusks and gentle demeanor, they offer a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the UK's wild habitats. 

Physical Characteristics:

  • Appearance: Chinese Water Deer have a soft, dense coat that varies from a reddish to greyish brown, complemented by a white underside. Their most distinctive feature is the elongated canine teeth or 'tusks' that protrude from the upper jaw of males.
  • Size: They are a small to medium-sized deer, with males (bucks) weighing around 11-18 kg and females (does) weighing around 10-16 kg.
  • Antlers: Unlike other deer species, Chinese Water Deer lack antlers, making their tusks a prominent characteristic.

Habitat:

Chinese Water Deer are highly associated with wetland habitats but are also found in reed beds, grasslands, and woodland edges, showcasing their ability to adapt to different terrains.

Behaviour and Diet:

  • Social Behaviour: They tend to be solitary or form small groups, displaying a shy and secretive behaviour.
  • Diet: Their diet mainly consists of grasses, sedges, and other herbaceous plants, reflecting their preference for wetland habitats.

Breeding:

Breeding season occurs during November and December, with fawns being born between May and June, following a gestation period of around six months.

Management Considerations:

  • Population Monitoring: Continuous monitoring helps in assessing the population dynamics and their interaction with the habitat.
  • Habitat Management: Maintaining and enhancing wetland and grassland habitats are crucial for supporting healthy Chinese Water Deer populations.
  • Ethical Culling: Ethical culling may be employed to manage populations and prevent potential conflicts with agricultural practices.

Historical Significance:

Chinese Water Deer were introduced to the UK in the 19th century. Despite being non-native, they have established stable populations, especially in the southeastern regions.

Conclusion:

Chinese Water Deer add a unique charm to the UK's wildlife ensemble. At Wildscape Deer Management, our management strategies are designed to ensure their sustainable presence, aligning with our broader mission of promoting ecological balance and biodiversity across the regions of Sussex, Surrey, and Hampshire.