The Chital (Axis axis) is also known as the spotted deer or the axis deer. It lives in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and large parts of India. Chitals are the most common species of deer in India. They have also been introduced in Hawaii and Texas. Herds of chital and groups of grey langur share an interesting form of symbiosis. The chital, with their superior sense of smell warn the langurs, and on the other hand, the langurs warn the group of chitals when they spot a predator, such as a tiger, with their keen eyesight. Also, chitals profit from the fruits that the langurs drop.
Which zoos have them?
Artis (Netherlands)The Chital, indian spotted deer is listed as Least Concern (LR/lc), lowest risk. Does not qualify for a more at risk category. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category, on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Some facts about the
Chital
Adult weight : 36 kg (79.2 lbs)
Maximum longevity : 21 years
Female maturity :766 days
Male maturity : 913 days
Gestation : 226 days
Weaning : 122 days
Litter size : 1
Interval between litters : 426 days
Weight at birth : 3.144 kg (6.9168 lbs)
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