Mouse deer, also known as chevrotains, are small, hoofed mammals belonging to the family Tragulidae, distinct from true deer (Cervidae). As the smallest hoofed mammals, they are characterized by their delicate build and, in males, tusk-like elongated canines instead of antlers. Their elusive and shy nature means they are often unseen in the dense environments they inhabit.
Geographical Distribution
Mouse deer are primarily found across two major geographical regions: South and Southeast Asia, and parts of Central and West Africa. The distribution of these animals varies by species, with distinct groups inhabiting different continents.
In Asia, mouse deer species are widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia, including countries like Sri Lanka, India, Java, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra, Borneo, and the Philippines.
Specific species have distinct ranges. The greater mouse-deer (Tragulus napu) inhabits southern Thailand, southern Myanmar, peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and various smaller Malaysian and Indonesian islands. The lesser mouse-deer (Tragulus kanchil) has a broader range, extending through Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The Indian mouse deer (Moschiola indica) is found mainly in peninsular India, while the Philippine mouse-deer (Tragulus nigricans) is endemic to Balabac and its nearby smaller islands in the Philippines. Vietnam is also home to the silver-backed chevrotain (Tragulus versicolor).
The African mouse deer, represented by a single species known as the water chevrotain (Hyemoschus aquaticus), occupies a different part of the world. This species is found in the rainforests of Central and West Africa. Its range extends across countries such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Cameroon, and Gabon, reaching as far east as Uganda.
Preferred Habitats
Mouse deer predominantly thrive in forested areas, preferring environments with ample cover and consistent access to water. They are typically found within the dense undergrowth of tropical and subtropical rainforests, moist evergreen forests, and secondary forests. These environments provide thick vegetation for concealment and a rich food source.
Their habitats often feature close proximity to water sources like rivers and streams, used for hydration and as escape routes from predators. Some species, like the water chevrotain, can submerge themselves underwater for several minutes to evade threats. Mouse deer also inhabit swampy or marshy areas and mangrove thickets, demonstrating their affinity for wet, densely vegetated landscapes.
The small stature and secretive behavior of mouse deer suit these hidden environments. They navigate through the forest by creating small, tunnel-like trails within thick brush. Primarily nocturnal, they forage at night and spend daylight hours resting within dense vegetation to remain hidden. While they typically prefer secluded settings, some populations adapt to more open areas, including secondary forests and urbanized fringes, especially when facing habitat loss.