Chinese Water Deer

The facts

There are six species of deer found in this country. The Chinese water deer has narrow pectoral and pelvic girdles, long legs, and a long, graceful neck. The powerful hind legs are longer than the front legs, so that the haunches are carried higher than the shoulders. They run with rabbit-like jumps. In the groin of each leg is an inguinal gland used for scent marking; this deer is the only member of the Cervidae to possess such glands. The short tail is no more than 5–10 cm / 1.9–3.8 in. in length and is almost invisible, except when it is held raised by the male during the rut. The ears are short and very rounded, and both sexes lack antlers. The coat is an overall golden brown colour, and may be interspersed with black hairs, while the undersides are white. The strongly tapered face is reddish brown or grey in colour, and the chin and upper throat are cream coloured. The hair is longest on the flanks and rump. In the autumn, the summer coat is gradually replaced by a thicker, coarse-haired winter coat that varies from light brown to greyish brown. Neither the head nor the tail poles are well differentiated as in gregarious deer; consequently, this deer's coat is little differentiated.

Where do Chinese Water Deer live?

Chinese Water Deer were first introduced into Great Britain in the 1870s and were kept in the London Zoo. In 1896, they were transferred to Woburn Abbey, Bedfordshire, with further additions being imported and added to the stock. In 1929 and 1930, 32 deer were transferred from Woburn to Whipsnade, also in Bedfordshire, and released into the park. It is thought that the current Chinese Water Deer population at Whipsnade is over 600 whilst at Woburn it is probably in the region of 250 plus. The present introduced population derives from a number of deliberate releases; the majority, however, is descended from escapees. The majority of the wild Chinese Water Deer population still resides close to Woburn Abbey. It appears that the deer’s strong preference for a particular habitat – tall reed and grass areas in rich alluvial deltas - has restricted its potential to colonise further afield. The main area of distribution is from Woburn, east into Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, and south towards Whipsnade. There have been small colonies reported in other areas.

Why keep Chinese Water Deer under control?

Due to their low local densities and restricted national distribution, Chinese water deer are of little national economic significance. Locally they may browse the tops from root crops in winter when other food sources are in short supply, but they do not cause damage to trees. Their low density and restricted range also means that the stalking market for Chinese water deer is very small.

Prevention & Control

A visit by our professional, qualified deer manager can be arranged. The best form of defence is a high stock fence to keep them out. If this is not possible shooting is the only viable option, however strict legislation and safety practices must apply.

Treatment

Contact Paramite Pest Solutions if you suspect you may have a problem and we can advise you on the best course of action. A visit by our professional, qualified deer manager can be arranged. The best form of defence is a high stock fence to keep them out. If this is not possible shooting is the only viable option, however strict legislation and safety practices must apply – a detailed assessment will be required by professional qualified deer manager from Paramite Pest Solutions. If you would like to discuss a deer problem please feel free to call or email us.