When we talk about a deer, we usually imagine a large and stately animal. But it is not always so. In nature, there is a tiny species of deer that is slightly larger than a rabbit.

Pudu is the smallest deer in the world. These animals grow no more than 35 centimeters in height and weigh from 3 to 6 kilograms.

The fur of these miniature animals has a reddish tint with a darker stripe on the back. The head is dark with rounded ears and tiny 9 cm horns.

Pudu is distinguished by fast running and climbing animal. Faced with a threat, this deer quickly flees in zigzag movements, hiding on steep slopes or in bushes. Thanks to this, it is saved from predators. The ability to move almost silently through the forest thicket helps these animals go unnoticed and not fall into the clutches of enemies.

Small deers live in the mountain forests and swamps of Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. They generally prefer mild winters and arid warm climates, live in dense forests, and often venture out into open spaces to search the food.

Pudu is a solitary animal and prefer to live alone. They live in pairs only during the mating season for breeding cubs.

Currently, pygmy deer are endangered. This species is listed in the Red Book. Experts are doing their best efforts in order to increase their population and the quality of genetics can be maintained.