Deer are often associated with the image of cute animals; however, one species of deer possesses a fearsome face reminiscent of an alien creature from science fiction films.
This is what people say about the Chinese muntjac (also known as Reeves’s muntjac or Chinese barking deer). This is a species of muntjac (also known as barking deer, belonging to the deer family) that originates from southeastern China and Taiwan.
This species of muntjac has two scent glands on its face, one located just in front of its eyes and the second on its forehead. Although the Chinese muntjac is not the only mammal with scent glands, they use these glands more frequently than other animal species.
When resting, the scent glands on the face of the Chinese muntjac close up and resemble skin folds. However, when this muntjac decides to mark its territory or attract a mate, it will expand its facial scent glands to emit a fragrance or rub against spots it wishes to mark.
The scent glands on the Chinese muntjac’s face will close when resting and look like skin folds (Photo: IFL).
The scent glands on the face of the Chinese muntjac will also expand when they feel excited, such as when encountering a potential mate or during feeding, as shown in the viral clip mentioned above.
Male Chinese muntjacs use their facial scent glands more frequently than females, usually to call for mates. The muscle structure on the face of the Chinese muntjac allows them to simultaneously expand both scent glands. Additionally, when the Chinese muntjac chews food, the scent glands on its face can also open and close continuously.
The Chinese muntjac is relatively small, standing about 0.5 meters tall and measuring one meter in length. An adult Chinese muntjac can weigh between 10 to 18 kg. Male muntjacs have short antlers of about 10 cm and upper canines, while females do not have antlers. Males use their antlers and canines to attack each other when competing for territory or mates.
The diet of the Chinese muntjac includes flowers, mushrooms, berries, grasses, nuts, various leaves, and tree bark. This species is also known as barking deer due to its distinctive call that resembles a dog’s bark. They often make this sound during mating or when provoked.
The Chinese muntjac is a solitary species, with both males and females marking their own territories using the scent glands on their faces.
