Municipality of Tourist Interest
Animals of the Brazilian Fauna
Pampas deer
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Nome Científico
Ozotoceros bezoarticus
Características
The pampas deer is a medium-sized cervid with light brown fur, lighter on the belly. Males have antlers that can reach up to 30 cm in length, branching into up to three points. They weigh between 20 and 40 kg and measure approximately 1.20 meters in length, with a height of about 70 cm at the withers. Their legs are long and slender, adapted for fast running.
Ocorrência
This species is found in the open field and savanna regions of South America, including Brazil (particularly in the Pantanal, Cerrado, and Pampas regions), Paraguay, Bolivia, Argentina, and Uruguay. It prefers natural grasslands, savannas, and cerrado areas, where it finds low-lying vegetation.
Comportamento
The pampas deer is a diurnal animal, usually seen in small groups or alone. They are extremely agile and fast animals, capable of running long distances to escape predators. They use their natural camouflage and discreet behaviors to protect themselves. However, during the breeding season, males become more territorial and competitive.
Alimentação
Their diet is herbivorous, consisting mainly of grasses, leaves, shoots, fruits, and low-growing plants, with a preference for easily accessible vegetation. They are ruminants, meaning they have a digestive system adapted to digesting large amounts of plant fiber.
Reprodução
Reproduction usually occurs at the end of the rainy season. The gestation period lasts about 200 days, after which a single offspring is born. Females care for the offspring for a few months, keeping them hidden in the vegetation to protect them from predators until they are strong enough to accompany them.
Preservação
The pampas deer is classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss caused by agricultural expansion, livestock grazing, and highway construction. Hunting also represents a significant threat. Conservation programs and protected areas are essential to ensure the species' survival in its natural environment.
Curiosidades
The pampas deer is one of the oldest cervids in South America, with fossils dating back more than 2.5 million years. Despite being an agile and fast species, it is highly dependent on open areas and natural pastures, making it vulnerable to habitat destruction. During the breeding season, males compete with each other using their antlers in territorial disputes.