The Brevard Zoo introduced a new animal to their environment last week: a 12-year-old Muntjac deer.

Muntjac deer are one of the smaller species of deer, native to Southeast Asia, ranging from India all the way through China.  They range from 15 to 25 inches in height and weigh anywhere from 33 to 77 pounds.  

But they are most well known for their facial glands, which they use to mark territories just by scent.  They can open these glands and take in specific odors, allowing them to maintain a sense of location.

Harriet, a Muntjac deer, was brought in hopes that she would breed with other deer in the sanctuary.

“I haven’t yet seen this deer but I know the other animal she might breed with and it’s interesting to me,” said Arnav Jain a frequent volunteer at the zoo. “I know that they are showing signs of endangerment, so I think it’s a big step for the Brevard Zoo.”

The Brevard Zoo houses many muntjacs, but the last time they bred any was more than 20 years ago.

“I think it’s interesting and want to see the deer because I think it is fascinating that it is native to somewhere so far ,” senior Sebastien Simms said.

By Adrian Mahindra