The Korean water deer, Hydropotes inermis argyropus, is a small deer species native to the Korean Peninsula and parts of China. This unique animal is often called the “vampire deer” due to its prominent, downward-pointing canine teeth, which resemble tusks. Unlike most other deer, both male and female Korean water deer do not grow antlers.
Distinctive Features and Behavior
Korean water deer are relatively small, standing about 50-55 cm (20-22 inches) tall at the shoulder and weighing between 11-18 kg (24-40 pounds). Their coats are golden brown, with black hairs interspersed, and they develop a thicker, coarser coat in winter for warmth. They have inguinal glands in their groin, used for scent marking, a feature not found in other deer species.
Male Korean water deer have upper canine teeth up to 8 cm (3.2 inches) long, while females have smaller canines, about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches). These tusks are held loosely and can be moved by facial muscles, allowing males to retract them when feeding. During aggressive encounters, such as territorial disputes or mating fights, males thrust these tusks out as formidable weapons.
Korean water deer are solitary animals, though females may be seen with their fawns. Males are territorial and mark their boundaries using feces, urine, and by rubbing their preorbital glands on vegetation. They also bite off parts of plants to mark their territory. When startled, these deer emit a distinctive “barking” sound as an alarm. They are also proficient swimmers, capable of traveling several miles to reach remote islands, reflected in their name.
Natural Habitat and Diet
Korean water deer are found in various environments, including wetlands, reed beds, grasslands, and forested areas. They are common along riverbanks, where reeds provide cover and food. In South Korea, they are widespread and inhabit various habitats, including farmlands. The demilitarized zone between North and South Korea also provides a protected environment where large populations thrive.
These deer are herbivores. They are considered intermediate feeders, browsing on leaves and woody plants, and grazing on grasses. In wetlands, they consume coarse grasses, reeds, and aquatic plants. Their diet also includes woody plants, forbs, and graminoids, with a proportion potentially from the Asteraceae family.
Ecological Impact and Human Relations
Globally, the Korean water deer is classified as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Despite this international status, in South Korea, the species is often regarded as an agricultural pest. This perception stems from the significant crop damage they cause, leading to economic losses for farmers. The Ministry of Environment in South Korea reports millions of dollars in annual crop damages, though figures have decreased recently.
The population of Korean water deer in South Korea has increased considerably, with estimates around 700,000, representing about 90% of the global population. This surge is attributed to the absence of natural predators and abundant food sources in the region. Increased population density has blurred forest and farmland boundaries, intensifying human-wildlife conflicts.
In response to crop damage, local governments in South Korea have designated water deer as “nuisance wildlife” and implement capture programs. Annually, between 100,000 and 200,000 individuals are captured or culled. Beyond agricultural damage, tens of thousands of Korean water deer are also killed annually in road collisions, accounting for over 80% of all wildlife-vehicle accidents in South Korea. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing conservation efforts with the need to protect human livelihoods and safety.