Axis (genus) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Axis (genus) |
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| Axis axis | |
Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Mammalia |
| Order: | Artiodactyla |
| Family: | Cervidae |
| Subfamily: | Cervinae |
| Genus: | Axis Smith, 1827 |
| Type species | |
| Cervus axis Erxleben, 1777
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| Species | |
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Axis is a group of deer that live in parts of southern and Southeast Asia. Most experts agree that there are four different types, or species, of deer in this group. Three of these four species are commonly known as hog deer. The name Axis comes from a word found in an ancient book called "Natural History" by Pliny the Elder.
Contents
Meet the Axis Deer Species
Scientists currently recognize four main species within the Axis group. These four species are divided into two smaller groups, called subgenera. One subgenus, named Axis, contains only the chital deer. The other subgenus, called Hyelaphus, includes the three other species.
The Chital Deer (Axis axis)
The chital deer, also known as the spotted deer or axis deer, is a beautiful animal with a reddish-brown coat covered in white spots. It is found across the Indian subcontinent, including Sri Lanka. Chital deer often live in herds and are known for their graceful movements.
The Calamian Deer (Axis calamianensis)
The Calamian deer is a special type of deer found only on the Calamian Islands in Palawan, the Philippines. It is a smaller deer, and like other hog deer, it tends to hide in thick bushes.
The Bawean Deer (Axis kuhlii)
The Bawean deer, also called Kuhl's deer, lives only on Bawean Island in Indonesia. This deer is quite rare and is an important part of the island's unique wildlife. It is also a type of hog deer.
The Indian Hog Deer (Axis porcinus)
The Indian hog deer gets its name because it runs through the forest with its head down, much like a hog. This deer is found in the northern plains of the Indian subcontinent, stretching to Myanmar and parts of Indochina. It prefers grassy areas and woodlands near water.
Images for kids
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The chital deer, also known as the spotted deer.
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A Calamian deer.
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A male and young Bawean deer.
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An Indian hog deer.
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See also
In Spanish: Axis (género) para niños
