Eld's Deer - Appearance

Appearance

The following measurements have been reported for the Eld's deer:

• Head–body length: 150–180 cm (59–71 in)
• Shoulder height: 110–125 cm (43–49 in)
• Tail length: 20–30 cm (8–12 in)
• Weight: 125–175 kg (276–386 lb)
• Antler length: 99 cm (39 in)

The deer are generally of medium size and are similar to the size and shape of the barasingha. The species has a very regal and graceful Cervus physique. Its legs are thin and long, and has a long body with a large head on a thin neck. The throat of a male has a thick mane of long hair. Males (stags) are taller and heavier than the females (hinds or does). Their coats, rough and coarse, change colour with the season; in summer the colour is reddish-brown, while in winter, it turns dark brown, with males tending to be darker than the females. The tail is short in length and the rump has no distinct patch. Despite these features, they are actually related to the Père David's deer. The antlers, bow- or lyre-shaped, do not grow upwards, but tend to grow outwards and then inwards; a smaller branch grows towards the front of the head. The brow tines are especially long and noticeable. The brow-antlered deer is so named because they have long brow tines. They shed their antlers every year, with the largest size attained during the breeding season.