BAWEAN DEER Meaning and
Definition
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Bawean deer, scientifically known as Axis kuhlii, is a diminutive species of deer endemic to the Indonesian island of Bawean. Also commonly referred to as Bawean hog deer or Kuhl's hog deer, it belongs to the family Cervidae and the genus Axis. This smaller-sized deer species is characterized by its brownish-gray fur, which is speckled with white spots, particularly prominent on the fawns.
Adult Bawean deer have a slender body shape with a height ranging between 50 and 60 centimeters at the shoulder and typically weigh around 15 to 20 kilograms. Bucks usually bear antlers, which are relatively short with three tines on each side. Their diet consists mainly of grasses, leaves, and fruit.
Unfortunately, the Bawean deer is listed as a critically endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The primary threat to its population arises from habitat loss and degradation due to human activities, including agriculture and logging. Additionally, their limited distribution on the island further exacerbates their vulnerability. Conservation efforts have been implemented to safeguard their remaining habitats, establish protected areas, and promote captive breeding programs to increase their population size.
The conservation and protection of the Bawean deer are crucial to maintain the island's biodiversity and ecological balance, as well as to prevent the extinction of this unique and rare species of deer.
Etymology of BAWEAN DEER
The word "Bawean deer" primarily consists of two parts: "Bawean" and "deer".
1. Bawean: The term "Bawean" refers to an island in Indonesia called Bawean Island. This island is known for its unique ecosystem and various species found there, including the Bawean deer. The name "Bawean" itself has Javanese origins, as the island is located near the larger island of Java. The exact etymology or meaning of "Bawean" is not clear, but it is likely derived from local Javanese words or names.
2. Deer: The word "deer" comes from the Old English word "deor", which was used to refer to any wild animal, not specifically the mammal we now associate with the term. "Deor" traces its roots back to the Proto-Germanic word "*deuzą".
