The endangered Eld’s deer at Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary By Pongpol Adireksarn

The endangered Elds deer at Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary By Pongpol Adireksarn

The Eld's deer, endemic to South and Southeast Asia, has been extensively hunted for its meat, exquisite antlers, and valuable hides, bringing it to the brink of extinction. The Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as one of the last refuges for this species, which the IUCN classifies as endangered. The Eld's deer is a medium-sized deer, measuring 150-180 cm in head-body length and weighing between 125-175 kg. While females lack antlers, males shed theirs annually.

Small herds of Eld's deer can be spotted near the headquarters of Huai Kha Khaeng WS, where they seek proximity to human settlements within the sanctuary as a defense against tigers, leopards, and wild dogstheir primary predators. Their diet primarily consists of herbs, plants, grasses, and fruits.

The global population of Eld's deer has plummeted dramatically, now estimated to be around 1,500 animals. In South Asia, the Eld's deer is also referred to as the thamin or brow-antlered deer.