Mini South American deer that weighs as much as a watermelon makes its debut at Queens Zoo

The southern pudu, a tiny deer species native to Chile and Argentina, was born weighing just 2 pounds but will weigh as much as a watermelon when fully grown.

This species is considered near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, highlighting the risks of habitat loss and invasive species impacting their decreasing population.

The Queens Zoo participates in breeding programs for southern pudus, having successfully welcomed eight fawns since 2005 to help maintain a genetically diverse population.

Collaboration between zoos is crucial for the survival of the southern pudu, as evidenced by their presence in both the Queens Zoo and Prospect Park Zoo.

Read at New York Post