Despite its common name, the water chevrotain is neither a mouse nor exclusively aquatic; it is a small ungulate with a closer relation to deer than rodents. This nocturnal animal possesses a remarkably acute sense of smell. This vital adaptation enables it to navigate the complex forest environment and detect predators, food sources, and mates during its nightly forages.

Characterized by their compact bodies, water chevrotains have a unique appearance with reddish-brown fur interspersed with white spots and stripes, which serve as camouflage in the dappled light of the forest floor. They have relatively long, thin legs and hoofed toes, adaptations that allow them to move swiftly through both terrestrial and aquatic environments. When threatened, they can take to water, using rivers and streams as escape routes from predators.

The diet of the water chevrotain is primarily herbivorous, consisting of fallen fruits, leaves, and plant shoots. However, their dietary habits are opportunistic. They have been known to consume insects and crabs and occasionally scavenge on meat and fish, highlighting their adaptability to the available resources within their habitat. This dietary flexibility is crucial for survival in the diverse ecosystems they inhabit.

One interesting behavioral trait of water chevrotains is their habit of holding their heads down while walking. This posture aids in navigating through the underbrush and avoiding detection by predators. Despite their small size, water chevrotains are adept at moving silently and inconspicuously through their dense forest habitat.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the water chevrotain is currently classified as Least Concern, with an estimated population size of 278,000 individuals. However, this status does not imply that the species is free from threats. Habitat loss due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, human settlement, and hunting for bushmeat poses significant challenges to water chevrotain populations.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Cameroon

2016

Central Af. Rep.

2016

Congo-Brazzaville

2016

Côte D’ivoire

2016

DR Congo (Kinshasa)

2016

Equatorial Guinea

2016

Gabon

2016

Ghana

2016

Guinea

2016

Liberia

2016

Nigeria

2016

Sierra Leone

2016

Togo

2016