Pere David's Deer

Père David's deer is a large wetland deer measuring 183–216cm from head to body. Males weigh approximately 214kg and females about 159kg. The reddish-brown summer coat develops a dark dorsal stripe, while the winter coat becomes grey-brown. Both sexes have a long tail ending in a dark tassel, and males bear annually renewed antlers whose long rear tine and backward-facing branches create an unusual outline. (Animal Diversity Web)

The species historically inhabited marshy lowlands and reed-covered wetlands of northeastern and east-central China. Surviving descendants of the former captive population have since been maintained and released in managed Chinese reserves. Père David's deer are herbivores that feed principally on grasses, adding aquatic plants during summer. Males defend groups of females during the June rut and may stop feeding while doing so. Gestation lasts about 280 days, with one or occasionally two fawns born in April or May. (Animal Diversity Web)