gouazoupira

Gouazoupira, scientifically Mazama gouazoupira, is a small deer in the family Cervidae. It is one of the brocket deer, a group of diminutive, forest-dwelling species native to tropical South America. The common name gouazoupira is used for this species in various South American languages and in some field guides.

Distribution and habitat: It is native to the Amazon basin, occurring across parts of Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, and neighboring countries. It favors tropical lowland forests and forest edges, often in dense undergrowth and secondary vegetation, and can adapt to disturbed habitats with sufficient cover.

Description: The gouazoupira is a compact, medium-sized deer with a brown to reddish-brown coat, a short tail, and relatively long hind legs. It typically weighs less than other New World deer and avoids open areas when possible.

Ecology and behavior: Individuals are usually solitary or found in small family groups. They are secretive and mainly crepuscular, avoiding predators by staying hidden in vegetation. Diet consists of leaves, fruits, seeds, and tender shoots.

Reproduction: Breeding can occur year-round in tropical climates, with a gestation period around six to seven months. Usually a single fawn is born, with maternal care lasting several months.

Conservation: The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, owing to its broad distribution and relatively stable populations. Local declines can occur due to habitat loss and hunting, but protected areas help maintain populations.