Axis kuhlii

The Ba Island spotted deer (Axis kuhlii) is a deer endemic to the Indonesian island of Bawean. Its scientific name is in honor of the German zoologist Heinrich Kuhl.

Until the 19th century, the number of Ba Island spotted deer was still relatively large. In the second half of the 20th century, as the original forests began to be cut down, the number dropped sharply from the 1960s to the 1970s. In 1969, only 500 remained, and the estimated number in 1980 was 300. However, with the establishment of protected areas, the number is said to have increased. They have few natural enemies except birds of prey and pythons. The World Conservation Union lists the Badao deer as critically endangered due to their small number, limited distribution and loss of habitat. They are also listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

Atung, one of the mascots of the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games, is a Badao deer, a symbol of speed.

Protect wild animals and eliminate game.

Maintaining ecological balance is everyone's responsibility!

The Ba Island spotted deer is a native species of Bawean Island in Indonesia. From 2 million years ago to the present, it has only been distributed on this island. The Ba Island spotted deer mainly lives on the banks of rivers at an altitude of 500-800m and in nearby swamp wetlands with wormwood (reeds). It rarely enters mountain forests far from the river bank. It is rarely seen in terrestrial forests.

Male Badao spotted deer are 60-70 cm tall. Their antlers are trifurcated. Unlike mainland Asian spotted deer, they are born spotless. Their fur is brown with no white spots.