The Calamian Deer

This deer is usually found only in the Calamianes–a group of islands in Northern Palawan — particularly in desiduous forests and clearings on the islands of Culion and Busuanga. It has a tawny brown-colored coat, with the males generally darkening with age. Compared to other species of the deer, the Calamian deer (Axis calamianesis) has relatively long legs, which are darker than the rest of the body. The male sports three-pronged antlers mounted on its forehead.
Though generally nocturnal, they emerge early in the morning from their resting places in the undergrowth to graze on the clearings and fields. Prized for their meat (as food) and antlers (collectible items), this species have been declared by the IUCN as endangered in 1996, having an estimated population of 900. Actions to save the Calamian deer have been initiated both locally and internationally. One is by breeding them in captivity in Calauit islands. As of 2002, there were 1,200 Calamian deer counted in this natural reserve alon