China
2024.11.06 16:27 GMT+8

Crowning glory: Milu deer's unique mating display

Updated 2024.11.06 16:27 GMT+8
CGTN

This photo shows a milu deer in Jiangsu's Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve wearing a "crown" made of miscellaneous debris. /CGTN

This photo shows milu deer in Jiangsu's Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve wearing a "crown" made of miscellaneous debris. /CGTN

This photo shows milu deer in Jiangsu's Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve wearing a "crown" made of miscellaneous debris. /CGTN

This photo shows a milu deer in Jiangsu's Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve wearing a "crown" made of miscellaneous debris. /CGTN

This photo shows milu deer in Jiangsu's Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve wearing a "crown" made of miscellaneous debris. /CGTN

This photo shows milu deer in Jiangsu's Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve wearing a "crown" made of miscellaneous debris. /CGTN

Why do these deer have cloth wrapped around their antlers? During the mating season, male milu deer in Jiangsu's Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve put on a spectacular display to attract potential mates. They weave strips of cloth, leaves, and other debris into their antlers, creating a "crown" that makes them appear larger and more imposing. This eye-catching tactic enhances the presence of their antlers, increasing their chances in the competition to become king of the wetlands.

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