Rucervus

A small but fascinating group of deer found mainly in South and Southeast Asia. This genus includes a few rare and regionally unique species, such as the barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii) and the Eld’s deer (Rucervus eldii), both known for their graceful appearance and impressive antlers. Members of this genus are large-bodied deer with long legs, and they tend to favor grassy wetlands, open forests, and marshlands. They are built for moving through tall grass and soft ground, and their strong legs and wide hooves help them walk through muddy or swampy areas without sinking too deeply — a useful trait in the habitats they call home.

One of the key features that sets Rucervus apart is the distinct shape of its antlers. In many other deer, antlers grow upward and branch out in a variety of directions. But in Rucervus deer, the antlers typically have three tines (points) on each side, and they grow more vertically and symmetrically, forming elegant arches that make them easily recognizable. In the barasingha, also known as the swamp deer, the antlers can have more than twelve points, which is how it got its name — “barasingha” means “twelve-horned” in Hindi. These antlers are shed and regrown each year and are used by males during mating season to spar and compete for females.

These deer are herbivores, feeding mainly on grasses, aquatic plants, and leaves. They are often seen grazing in the early morning or late afternoon and resting during the heat of the day. They are social animals, usually found in small groups, especially outside of the breeding season. During the rut, males can become territorial and compete fiercely with one another.