They are the smallest hoofed mammals in the world. Most adults weigh between 2 and 10 pounds and are about the size of a rabbit or a small cat.
Not Mice or Deer: Despite their name, they are not related to mice and are not true deer. They belong to their own ancient family called Tragulidae.
Fangs instead of Antlers: They do not have horns or antlers. Instead, male mouse-deer have small, sharp, tusk-like canine teeth that stick out like tiny vampire fangs, which they use to fight.
Where They Live: They live in the dense, dark undergrowth of tropical forests in South and Southeast Asia, with one species found in West and Central Africa.
Behavior: They are very shy, solitary, and mostly active at night. You can read more about their care and habits from the Larger Malay mouse-deer guide.
