Species Description: Small Red Brocket

Common Name: Small Red Brocket
Scientific Name: Mazama gouazoubira

Habitat: The Small Red Brocket is primarily found in the dense, tropical forests of Central and South America. Its geographic range includes countries such as Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This deer species prefers lowland rainforests and foothill regions, often inhabiting areas with thick underbrush and abundant vegetation, which provides both cover and food sources.

Physical Characteristics: The Small Red Brocket generally measures about 80 to 100 centimeters in length and can weigh between 30 to 45 kilograms. Its coat is a reddish-brown color, with lighter undersides, which helps with camouflage in its forest habitat. Notably, it has a distinctive, small size compared to other deer species, and its long, slender legs are adapted for navigating through dense foliage. The Small Red Brocket also features short antlers, typically only present in males, which can grow up to 25 centimeters long.

Behavior: Small Red Brocket deer are primarily crepuscular, being most active during dawn and dusk. They are solitary animals, preferring to roam alone or in small family groups. Their behavior includes defensive tactics such as freezing and hiding when threatened, utilizing their excellent camouflage. Additionally, they are known for their gentle demeanor and cautious nature, often snorting to alert others of potential danger.

Diet: The Small Red Brocket is primarily herbivorous, with a diet consisting of leaves, fruits, and tender shoots. They are known to forage on a variety of plants, including grasses and shrubs. Their feeding habits play a crucial role in maintaining the vegetation structure of their habitat, as they help in seed dispersal and plant growth regulation.

Reproduction: The Small Red Brocket breeds year-round, with a peak in activity typically observed during the rainy season. After a gestation period of approximately 7 months, females give birth to a single fawn, which stays hidden in dense vegetation for the first few weeks. Maternal care is intense during this period, and the mother will often leave the fawn to forage nearby, returning frequently to nurse.

Conservation Status: The Small Red Brocket is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN. However, habitat loss due to deforestation and hunting poses a threat to its populations. Some localized populations may be considered vulnerable, leading to the need for further monitoring and conservation efforts to protect their habitats and reduce human impact.

Interesting Facts: The Small Red Brocket is known for its adaptability to various forest types, from humid lowlands to drier montane regions. This deer species displays unique vocalizations, including low-frequency sounds used for communication among individuals. They are also excellent swimmers, capable of crossing rivers when necessary to access different parts of their territory.

Role in Ecosystem: As a herbivore, the Small Red Brocket plays a vital role in its ecosystem by influencing plant community dynamics. Through grazing and browsing, it helps in shaping the forest understory and creating pathways for other animals. Additionally, its feeding habits contribute to seed dispersal, promoting plant diversity and forest regeneration.