Known locally as viracho or guazuncho, it is the most elusive deer in Iberá. Its uniform grayish-brown coat camouflages it perfectly among the dry branches of the understory. Adult males develop simple antlers in the form of two straight, unbranched daggers barely 10 cm long: a diagnostic feature that distinguishes it immediately from any other deer. Small in build (50-65 cm at the shoulder, 15-25 kg), it is much smaller than the marsh deer. At any sign of danger it gives a short snort and flees in zigzagging leaps toward the dense woodland. Formerly classified as Mazama gouazoubira.
Behaviour
Solitary and markedly elusive, with crepuscular and nocturnal habits and occasional morning activity in winter. Herbivorous and frugivorous: it eats tender leaves, shoots and fungi, and has a particular fondness for the fallen fruit of wild guava, algarrobo and mbocayá and yatay palms. It moves silently through the understory, taking advantage of woodland edges and forested tracks.
How and when to see it
Year round. Best sightings in the early morning or at dusk, walking in complete silence along forest footpaths or the edges of wooded vehicle tracks. Portals Laguna Iberá and Mburucuyá are the most productive.
Where to see it in the Iberá
The gateways of the Great Iberá Park where gray brocket deer has confirmed presence:
Tours to see it
Verified providers operating at the gateways where gray brocket deer lives. You contact them directly on WhatsApp from the app.
- Esteros Ñe’é
Experiences with local storytelling and a cultural take on the marshes.★ 5.0 - Navegando Ituzaingó
Private sailboat rides on the Paraná with captain Mario: sunrise, morning and sunset…★ 5.0 - Reserva Estero Camba Trapo
Private nature reserve of Ecoposada del Estero, on the Camba Trapo road. One of the…★ 5.0 - Excursiones Yetapá (Eduardo Alegre)
Excursions in the Iberá based in San Miguel, run by licensed guide Eduardo (Gualo)…★ 5.0
Species profile
- Common nameGray Brocket Deer
- Scientific nameSubulo gouazoubira
- GroupMammal
- StatusNative
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