About Pudu puda (Molina, 1782)
Species Size Ranking
The southern pudu, Pudu puda, is the third smallest deer species in the world. It is slightly larger than its close relatives the northern pudu and Pudella carlae.
Body Measurements
It stands 35 to 45 cm (14 to 18 in) tall at the shoulder, and weighs 6.4 to 13.4 kg (14 to 30 lb).
Antler Characteristics
The southern pudu’s antlers grow to 5.3 to 9 cm (2.1 to 3.5 in) long, and curve backward in a shape similar to a mountain goat’s horns.
Coat Features
Its coat is dark chestnut-brown, and forms a tuft of fur at the front of the head that covers the antlers.
General Habitat
The southern pudu inhabits forests, including both mature and disturbed forests, that typically have a dense understory. It prefers open spaces with abundant vegetation for feeding.
Elevation Range
It occurs at lower elevations than its sister species, ranging from sea level up to 1,700 m (5,600 ft) in elevation.
Chilean Coast Range Habitat
In the Chilean Coast Range, the southern pudu lives in primary and secondary broadleaf evergreen forests, alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides) forests, and sometimes in Eucalyptus plantations.
Southern Andes Habitat
In the southern Andes of Chile and Argentina, it is associated with bamboo thickets (Chusquea spp.) and Nothofagus dombeyi forests.
Foraging Impact
Foraging by southern pudu is considered harmful to the regeneration of burned Pilgerodendron uviferum forests.
