Are Chinese water deer becoming more prevalent?
I have never before seen this species on my stalking ground and wonder whether it was a passing animal or one of several establishing themselves in my area of Norfolk?
Deer stalking
GRAHAM DOWNING
Chinese water deer are well established in certain parts of East Anglia and the East Midlands, where they have mostly spread along river valleys.
The population is generally low, but there are certain places, such as in the Broads, where they are a relatively common species.
Young bucks breaking away from family groups in late winter are often the pathfinders for the establishment of new deer populations, and it may well be that you will see more Chinese water deer in the future.