Chinese Water Deer: The Unique Stalking Challenge

Chinese Water Deer: The Unique Stalking Challenge.

Elusive, silent, and armed with razor-sharp instincts, the Chinese water deer is no ordinary quarry. With no antlers to give them away, these ghostly figures vanish into dense reed beds at the slightest hint of danger. Stalking them demands precision, patience, and a deep respect for their wild, untamed nature. Think you’re up for the challenge?.

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Chinese Water Deer.

The Chinese water deer (Hydropotes inermis) is a small, unusual species of deer that stands between 50cm and 55cm tall at the shoulder. Fully grown bucks weigh between 11kg and 18kg. Known for their large, rounded ears and teddy bear-like appearance, these deer have distinctive features that set them apart from other British deer species.
Unlike many deer species, Chinese water deer lack antlers. Instead, both males (bucks) and females (does) possess prominent tusks. In bucks, the tusks are longer and more visible, playing a role in territorial disputes and dominance displays.

Physical Characteristics.

• Size: Larger than a muntjac but smaller than a roe deer.
• Colour: Ginger-brown with no white rump patch, distinguishing them from other species.
• Facial Features: Large fluffy ears, a small black nose, and a rounded face contributing to their teddy bear-like appearance.
• Hoof Prints: Small hoof slots measuring around 4cm long.
• Tusks: Used for display and as weapons, much like antlers in other deer species.

History & Distribution in Britain.

Chinese water deer were first introduced to the UK in 1873, when they were kept at London Zoo. Later, in 1929, individuals escaped from Whipsnade Zoo, leading to a gradual increase in their population. Subsequent introductions to deer parks and later escapes and releases helped establish the species in the wild.
Today, Britain is estimated to hold around 10% of the world’s total Chinese water deer population, making it one of the best locations globally for stalking this unique species.

Behaviour & Habitat.

.Chinese water deer are predominantly solitary, except during the breeding season when pairs may form. At high densities, small groups may also occur.
• Bucks are territorial and highly aggressive, rarely tolerating the presence of other males.• Vocalisations:
• When alarmed or warning others, both sexes emit a short bark.
• Bucks produce a rapid chattering sound (‘whickering’) when chasing rivals.
• During courtship, bucks emit whistles and squeaks.
• Both sexes are known to scream when chased.
They prefer open fields and wetland areas, making stalking a unique challenge as there is often little cover for concealment.

Why Hunt Chinese Water Deer?

Chinese water deer offer a distinctive and rewarding stalking experience due to their unusual behaviour and appearance. Unlike other deer species, they favour open ground, much like hares, making it essential to approach with extreme care.
Once alerted, these deer quickly signal their presence to others, meaning a failed approach can disrupt an entire area. Successful stalking requires stealth, patience, and careful planning.