Tragulus refers to a genus of small, hoofed mammals belonging to the family Tragulidae. Tragulus species are commonly known as mouse deer or chevrotains. These animals are native to the forests and grasslands of Southeast Asia, particularly in countries such as India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Characterized by their small size, tragulus species are among the smallest ungulates, typically measuring about 40 to 60 centimeters in length and weighing around 2 to 10 kilograms. They possess slender legs, a rounded body, and a small head with large eyes and elongated, mobile ears. Their fur is usually brown or gray, blending well with their natural habitats. Tragulus species possess a pair of tiny, hollow, and unbranched structures called tragulid teeth, which are unique among ungulates.
Tragulus are primarily herbivores, feeding on a variety of plant material such as leaves, fruits, and shoots. They are well-adapted to their forest environments, utilizing their small size and agile movements to navigate through dense vegetation, as well as employing camouflage for protection against predators. Despite their size, tragulus species also have well-developed scent glands used for marking territories or signaling reproductive readiness.
Given their diminutive size and elusive nature, tragulus exhibit behavior that includes solitary or pair living arrangements and nocturnal activity. They are generally shy and secretive animals, often found hiding in the underbrush during daylight hours.
The conservation status of tragulus species varies, with some being listed as vulnerable or near threatened due to habitat loss caused by deforestation and hunting for meat and traditional medicines. The genus Tragulus represents a unique and fascinating group of small ungulates, playing a significant ecological role within their respective habitats
