The smallest deer species in the world, endemic to the temperate rainforests of southern Chile and southwestern Argentina, characterized by its diminutive size and unique adaptation to dense forest environments.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Temperate rainforests of the Valdivian and Patagonian regions, ranging from sea level to 2,000 meters elevation, inhabiting dense, humid forests with thick understory vegetation
Ecological Role
Critical seed disperser, plays a significant role in forest ecosystem dynamics, helps maintain plant diversity through seed transportation and germination
Morphology
SKIN COATDense, thick fur ranging from reddish-brown to dark brown, provides camouflage in forest environments
LIMBS WINGSShort, sturdy legs with small hooves, adapted for maneuvering through dense forest undergrowth
HEAD SENSORYSmall pointed ears, large dark eyes with excellent peripheral vision, short facial profile with small antlers in males
BODY STRUCTUREExtremely small deer, adult body length 32-44 cm, body weight 3.3-6.0 kg, compact muscular build adapted for forest navigation
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: AgainErick