Pudú

From Encyclopedia Jr, free information reference for Kids

Pudú
Southern Pudu, Pudu pudu
Conservation status
Vulnerable (VU)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Artiodactyla Suborder: Ruminantia Family: Cervidae Genus: Pudu
Species
P. pudu P. mephistophiles

The pudú (Pudu spp.), considered to be the world's smallest deer, is a native of Argentina and Chile in South America. There are two species of pudú: the Northern Pudú (Pudu mephistophiles), which stands about 18 inches (46 cm) at the shoulder; and the Southern or Chilean Pudú (Pudu pudu or Pudu puda), which averages between 14 to 16 inches (36 to 41 cm).

Both species of pudú subsist on a diet of grass, leaves, and fallen fruit. In the wild, their life expectancy is between eight and ten years. Both species are endangered, primarily due to hunting and habitat loss from human agriculture and land development.

The pudú has several interesting characteristics that distinguish it from other deer. It is able to climb fallen trees, and it is sometimes forced to do so, both to escape predators and reach food. Because of its small size, it is often forced to balance on its hind legs to reach foliage. When threatened, it barks in alarm.

[edit] The pudú in pop culture

The pudú has been popularized as the mascot of the weblog maintained by stand-up comedian and Jeopardy! champion Bob Harris, who often accompanies pictures of the pudú and other small animals with whimsical stories.

An unnamed pudú has also appeared as a minor character in the webcomic Little Dee by Christopher Baldwin.

Apparently after seeing the pudú on BobHarris.com, a Purdue University student named Jeremy Porath began a humorous petition to make the animal the school's mascot, creating the "Purdue Pudu." So far, Purdue Pete the Boilermaker appears likely to keep the job.

Small pudú

[edit] External links

• UltimateUngulate.com entry on the Southern Pudú
• Animal Planet page on the Southern Pudú
• Bristol Zoo page on the Southern Pudú
• BobHarris.com "pudublogging" section