The term “Korean deer” often refers to a distinct ungulate species playing a notable role in the country’s diverse ecosystems. These animals, while sometimes mistaken for other deer varieties, possess unique characteristics that allow them to thrive in specific Korean landscapes.
Identifying the Korean Deer
The species most commonly identified as the “Korean deer” is the Siberian roe deer (Capreolus pygargus). This includes the subspecies Capreolus pygargus bedfordi, also known as the Manchurian roe deer, found in Korea and parts of eastern and southern China. The Siberian roe deer is larger than its European counterpart, Capreolus capreolus.
These deer are moderately sized. Adult males weigh between 34.9 to 48.6 kg and females between 32.0 to 46.9 kg, though body mass can vary geographically. Their body length ranges from 126.7 to 144.4 cm, with a shoulder height of 82 to 94 cm. They have a short tail, 2 to 4 cm long, which is often not visible.
The coat of the Siberian roe deer changes seasonally. In summer, their fur is reddish, transitioning to a grayish-brown or ochraceous shade in winter. Southern populations are often darker, while northern populations may be lighter gray. Young fawns have spotted coats. Male Siberian roe deer possess antlers that are larger and have more branches than those of European roe deer, featuring three widely spaced, upward-slanting tines. These antlers are shed in autumn or early winter and regrow soon after.
Life in Their Natural Environment
Siberian roe deer inhabit diverse environments across the Korean Peninsula, such as forests, mixed woodlands, grasslands, and mountainous regions. They prefer open woodland, grassland, and shrubby areas, and can be found at elevations up to 3,000 meters in some parts of their range. These deer are well-adapted to severe weather extremes.
Their diet is varied and opportunistic, consisting of over 600 plant species. Herbaceous dicotyledons comprise about 58% of their diet, monocotyledons 16%, and woody species 22%. In winter, when other food sources are scarce, they may consume mosses, fungi, and woody material, which can comprise 65% of their diet by November. They obtain water from moisture-rich foods rather than directly from a source, and in summer, they often visit natural salt licks to meet sodium needs.
Siberian roe deer are shy and crepuscular, most active during twilight hours. Often solitary in summer, they form mixed herds of 20-30 individuals in winter. Some populations undertake mass migrations, with herds potentially reaching up to 500 individuals.
Males establish territories as the rutting season approaches, marking them with scents from head glands rubbed against trees and shrubs, or by fraying trees with antlers. Mating occurs in August and September.
Females are unique among ungulates for undergoing embryonic diapause, where embryo implantation is delayed until January. Gestation lasts 280-300 days. Females typically give birth to two fawns, though one to three can occur. Fawns remain hidden in tall grass and are suckled for 4-5 months.
Females reach reproductive maturity around one year but usually breed in their second year. Males typically mate in their third year. Lifespan generally does not exceed 10 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of about 18 years.
Conservation and Future
The Siberian roe deer is classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population across its broad range. Specific population estimates are not available for the entire range. Despite this, their numbers are decreasing in some areas, including China and Korea.
Threats to Siberian roe deer populations include habitat loss due to urbanization and deforestation. Illegal hunting for meat and antlers is a significant threat. Regulated hunting has seen reduced numbers, but poaching remains an unquantified issue. Climate change further exacerbates these impacts, as colder winters can force deer to migrate when hunting pressure is higher.
Conservation efforts include legal protections and the establishment of protected areas. For instance, certain areas within South Korea, such as Seoraksan National Park, are important for Siberian roe deer protection, with significant portions identified as suitable habitat. Bag limits and expensive hunting licenses in some countries also help reduce legal hunting pressure.