Muntjac deer, often called “barking deer” due to their distinctive vocalizations, are small deer species originating from South and Southeast Asia. These animals have become increasingly prevalent in certain regions outside their native habitat, including parts of the UK, raising questions about their potential impact and any dangers they might pose to humans.
Understanding Muntjac Deer Behavior
Muntjac deer exhibit a shy and reclusive temperament. They are solitary animals, though they can be found in pairs, such as a doe with her fawn or a buck with a doe. These deer are cautious and often hide in dense vegetation during the day, becoming more active during dawn and dusk. When disturbed, their primary response is to flee, often emitting a loud, dog-like bark. Their small size, with adults weighing between 9 to 18 kg and standing around 52 cm at the shoulder, contributes to their elusive nature.
Situations Leading to Potential Harm
While timid, muntjac deer can exhibit defensive behavior under rare circumstances. An individual may become aggressive if it feels cornered or directly threatened. Does are protective of their fawns during the fawning season. Approaching a young fawn can provoke a defensive reaction from the mother.
Male muntjac deer, or bucks, possess small antlers and elongated upper canine teeth, called tusks, which can be up to 6 cm long. These tusks are used for fighting other bucks during territorial disputes or for access to females, not for hunting. While injuries to humans from muntjac are uncommon, these physical attributes could be used in a defensive encounter if a deer feels trapped or is provoked.
Safe Practices During Encounters
Encountering a muntjac deer does not pose a direct threat if certain precautions are followed. Maintaining a respectful distance is advisable, at least 50 meters. To avoid startling the animal, make some noise when moving through areas where deer might be present. Never attempt to feed or approach wild muntjac deer, as this can habituate them to humans and lead to unpredictable behavior. If a deer appears agitated or aggressive, backing away slowly and avoiding direct eye contact can help de-escalate the situation.
Other Associated Concerns
Beyond direct physical interactions, muntjac deer can present other concerns. They can carry parasites or diseases, such as Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a neurological prion disease affecting deer, elk, and moose. While there is currently no confirmed evidence of CWD transmission to humans, the possibility remains a theoretical concern, particularly through consumption of infected meat or contact with bodily fluids.
Muntjac deer are frequently involved in deer-vehicle collisions, especially in areas with high populations. These accidents can result in vehicle damage and, in some cases, human injuries or fatalities. Their increasing presence in suburban and urban areas also leads to garden and property damage, as they browse on various plants, including shrubs, flowers, and vegetables, and can strip tree bark.