Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Water deer
Scientific name: Hydropotes inermis
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: CERVIDAE
Group: Mammals
Shyness: Tolerant
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.12-31.03
Gestation: 180-200 jours
Births: 01.06-31.08
Habitat:
Wetlands and riparian woodlands
Description:
The water deer is a small semi-aquatic deer, 45–55 cm at the shoulder, with tawny fur and an elongated muzzle. Native to China and Korea and introduced in parts of Europe, it inhabits marshes, rivers, and wetlands, feeding on aquatic plants, grasses, and riparian thickets. Solitary and crepuscular, it often moves under vegetative cover.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the water deer at dawn or dusk using a telephoto lens of ≥300 mm from a concealed hide near the water. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion and maintain a distance of at least 20 m to avoid disturbance.
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