brocket

Brocket is the common name for several small deer species in the genus Mazama, native to Central and South America. Members of the Cervidae family, brockets are among the smaller neotropical deer, with compact bodies, slender legs, and short antlers that are typically shed annually. They vary in size and coloration among species, but many have brown to gray coats with lighter underparts and a faint white rump patch.

Brockets inhabit a range of forested and edge habitats, including tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and montane environments. They occur from sea level to high elevations in the Andes, mostly in areas with dense cover that provides concealment from predators and human disturbance.

Behaviorally, brockets are shy and elusive. They are mostly solitary or occur in very small family groups. They are largely crepuscular or nocturnal, relying on camouflage and quick, short movements through dense vegetation to avoid threats. Diet consists of browsed leaves, shoots, fruits, seeds, and occasionally grasses, depending on availability.

Reproduction varies by species and region, but brockets typically breed year-round or seasonally, with a gestation lasting several months after which a single calf is born. Fawns are well camouflaged and remain hidden by adults for several weeks.

Conservation status also varies by species; while some are common, others face habitat loss and hunting pressure. The genus Mazama is a priority for studies of neotropical mammal diversity and conservation.