Elephant puppet hears a muntjac call in the distance
2Unlike other species of deer, muntjac do not have a set rutting period and can breed throughout the year.
Muntjac are a surprisingly vocal and are sometimes known as 'barking deer'. They may give a dog-like bark when alarmed and communicate with each other using squeaking noises.
It's often used as a territorial call, and males will also bark to attract a female, or to ward off predators. If you live near muntjacs, be warned – this barking can go on for many hours
Muntjac are widespread across England and parts of Wales, with the greatest numbers in the South East. The species has steadily spread across the country and its population is expected to continue growing. Muntjac are present in both Scotland and Northern Ireland, but in much smaller numbers.
Deer are capable of eating thorny plants and also some, such as yew, which are poisonous to cattle and sheep. They also eat large amounts of fruits and berries in the autumn. These include acorns, chestnuts, beech mast, apples and mountain ash berries.