All my previous sighting s of this animal have been fleeting glimpses as it disappeared into the bushes. Indian Muntjac commonly known as the Indian barking deer is a small, very alert and shy member of the deer family. The more popular name “Barking Deer” is derived from the fact that it gives calls similar to barking, usually on sensing a predator. Their height ranges from 15-26 in but the males are extremely territorial and can be fierce for their size. They will fight each other for territory using their antlers or their (more dangerous) tusk-like upper canine teeth, and can defend themselves against predators such as dogs.
The fact which surprised me most was that the species is omnivorous, feeding on fruits, shoots, seeds, birds’ eggs as well as small animals and even carrion. This species is one of eleven different species of Muntjacs spread across Asia.
These photographs were taken in B.R Hills very much near Gorukana and here we were lucky enough to see this individual peacefully grazing and not being it’s usual shy self.
