Javan Rusa Facts and Information

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By Noah Tanner| September 22, 2023| Deer Species

The Javan Rusa is a deer species that holds a unique place in Indonesia's rich biodiversity. These elegant creatures, known for their distinct features, have piqued the curiosity of wildlife enthusiasts for generations.

Table of Contents

Species Data

Class: Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Family: Cervidae
Scientific Name: Rusa timorensis
Life Span: 15 to 20 years
Height: 85-110 cm (33-43 inches)
Weight: 150-180 pounds (68-82 kilograms)

Description

The Javan Rusa is a medium-sized deer with a reddish-brown coat adorned with white spots on its back and sides. Males (bucks) typically have three-pronged antlers that are shed annually, while females (does) do not possess antlers.

Appearance

These deer possess a graceful appearance with slender legs and a distinctive hump-like ridge on their back. Their striking coat patterns add to their allure, making them a sight to behold in the lush Indonesian forests.

Behavior

Javan Rusa are known for their adaptability and are often found in various habitats, from forests to grasslands. They are primarily active during dawn and dusk, displaying a cautious yet curious nature.

Habitat

Native to Indonesia, the Javan Rusa thrives in a variety of environments, including lowland rainforests, savannas, and coastal areas. Their adaptability has enabled them to establish populations on multiple Indonesian islands.

Diet and Nutrition

These herbivores have a diverse diet, feasting on grasses, leaves, fruits, and even agricultural crops. Their feeding habits play a crucial role in shaping the ecosystem.

Mating Habits

Javan Rusa typically mate during the rainy season, with a gestation period of around 230 days. Female deer give birth to a single fawn, which they protect and nurture in their native habitat.

Mating Behavior

Reproduction Season: Rainy season
Pregnancy Duration: Approximately 230 days
Baby Carrying: Females provide care and protection to their fawns
Independent Age: Fawns become independent at around 6-8 months
Female Name: Doe
Male Name: Buck
Baby Name: Fawn

5 Fun Facts for Kids

Javan Rusa are excellent swimmers and are known to cross rivers and streams with ease.
Their name “Rusa” is derived from the Indonesian word for deer.
These deer are considered a symbol of fertility and prosperity in Indonesian culture.
Javan Rusa have a special gland near their eyes that secretes a substance used for marking territories.
They are known for their distinctive vocalizations, including barks and grunts, which they use to communicate with each other.

About the Author / Noah Tanner

Noah Tanner, a dedicated nature lover from a young age, has developed a profound connection with the serenity of deer. Growing up amidst wilderness, his passion for these graceful creatures runs deep. Noah's expertise in tracking their movements and his commitment to wildlife conservation make him a true steward of the natural world, capturing the essence of deer both through his lens and his unwavering dedication to their preservation.