Welcome to Mill Mountain Zoo
Roanoke, Virginia
STATUS: NEAR THREATENED
How can I help?
-One of the main threats faced by Tufted Deer is the loss of forests. Be conscious of the source of your household foods and wood products.
-Another threat to this species is overhunting. Athough there is little we can do from home to prevent this, being aware of the challenges faced in this region may help protect this unique animal in the long run.
FAQ's:
1. Why do Tufted Deer have tusks?
They use the tusks to fight amongst themselves during the mating season, much like deer in Virginia use antlers.
Where can you find me?
(Click the map to find out more)
In damp, high altitude forests of South-Eastern China and Tibet.
MEET DOLORES AND HONNICUT, OUR TUFTED DEER!
Scientific Name: Elaphodus cephalophus
Diet: Herbivorous. This species feeds on woody and leafy vegetation.
Fun Fact:
Tufted deer will bark when startled.
The “fangs” seen on the male deer are actually tusks.
Compare me to...
The White tailed deer (Odocoileus Virginianus). Common to Virginia, this species has many similarites to the Tufted Deer. Both are most active at dusk and dawn, eat the same types of food, and have fawns with white spots which disappear with age.