Javan rusa deer

Animals

Javan rusa deer

Origin:
The Javan rusa (Rusa timorensis), also known as the Timorese deer  is native to Southeast Asia, specifically the island of Timor, which lies between Indonesia and East Timor. The species has also been introduced to several other areas, including Mauritius, where it has become popular and has successfully adapted to local conditions.

Specifics:
Appearance: The Timorese deer is smaller than the European deer, with an elegant, slender body and short fur that is predominantly brown to gray, with males having smaller, less branched antlers compared to other species. The antlers are usually simple, with one or two main branches.
Size: Males reach a height of 90–110 cm at the withers and weigh 50–90 kg. Females are smaller and lighter.
Behavior: The Timorese deer is more solitary or stays in small groups, which are formed mainly during the mating season. This species is very shy, preferring forested areas and hiding in dense vegetation where it can avoid predators.

Interesting facts:
Adaptation to tropical conditions: The Timorese deer is one of the few deer species that has adapted to tropical climates. It is able to live in hot, humid conditions and avoid tropical storms and drought.
Very shy: This species is very shy and timid, often moving at night or at dawn to avoid predators.
Food: The Timorese deer feeds mainly on grasses, leaves, bark and fruits that are common in its natural environment.
Occurrence:
This species was originally found on the island of Timor, but has been introduced to other areas, including Mauritius, where it has adapted to local conditions. In Mauritius, it is found in nature reserves and forested areas, where its population is successfully maintained. In the wild, this species is mostly restricted to tropical and subtropical forests, which provide ample food and shelter from predators.

Hunting of the Timorese deer:
In Mauritius and some other areas, this species is hunted for its meat and skin, but its population is mostly regulated and protected in national parks. Since it is an introduced species, it may also be regulated in some cases to control the ecological balances on these islands. Its population is maintained through controlled hunting, but efforts are also made to maintain its presence in nature reserves.