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Species ProfilesMarsh Deer (Blastocerus dichotomus)
Marsh Deer inhabit the Amazon River Basin among the borders of Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. Though once present throughout Uruguay, it is believed that population is extinct. Marsh Deer have reddish-chestnut colored coats with dark undersides and dark lower legs. Their large, white, fur-lined ears are in stark contrast to their black lips, while their eyes are faintly lined with a white ring. They can grow up to 6.5 ft. in length, being up to 4 ft. high at the shoulder, with tails of roughly 4-6 inches long. Males have large, ornamental antlers weighing up to 3-5 lbs. Marsh Deer have adapted quite well to their preference for marshy habitat. Their hooves are actually dewclaws that help them keep their footing in the sometimes unstable ground of the marshes. These "claws" can grow to over 3 inches in length. B. dichotomus are a primarily nocturnal animal, making their first appearances at dusk. They feed on various grasses, and aquatic plants, usually wading in no more than two feet of water at a time. They have been known to travel in groups of up to five individuals. Natural predators include the Jaguar, Anaconda and domestic dogs. Both habitat destruction and hunting are of major detriment to their population. Human undertakings including increased agricultural areas and construction of a hydroelectric reservoir on Brazil's Paraná River pose great threats to the balance of an already fragile population. There are several Marsh Deer in captivity. Brazil holds 33 individuals in all, though high mortality rates prevent further strengthening of numbers. Sources:
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