15 facts about the pampas deer?

1. Scientific name: *Ozotoceros bezoarticus*

2. Native to: South America, specifically Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

3. Size: Medium-sized deer, standing around 2-3 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing 35-75 pounds.

4. Appearance: Distinctive reddish-brown coat, with a white patch on the rump and a black stripe along the spine.

5. Diet: Herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, herbs, and fruits.

6. Habitat: Open grasslands, savannas, and agricultural fields.

7. Social behavior: Live in small groups of 2-5 individuals, consisting of a dominant male, several females, and their young.

8. Breeding season: Typically in the spring, with females giving birth to 1-2 fawns after a gestation period of about 200 days.

9. Life span: Average lifespan in the wild is 5-7 years, but they can live up to 10 years in captivity.

10. Predators: Main predators include pumas, jaguars, and wild dogs.

11. Conservation status: Classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN due to habitat loss, hunting, and disease.

12. Unique feature: They possess a scent gland on their hindquarters, used for marking territory and attracting mates.

13. Speed: They can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour when threatened.

14. Adaptations: Their long, slender legs are adapted for swift running and jumping.

15. Cultural significance: Pampas deer have a strong cultural significance in South America, often featured in folklore and art.