Huemul were considered a mountain deer, because they were seen in high mountains and some appeared thick-set, thus reminding of Alpine ibex or chamois. However, several factors explain the shape of huemul.

 

At least four factors known to influence shape have to be considered and understood:

 

 - characteristics of hair coat                                                                                   Read more...

 - posture                                                                                                                       Read more...

 - variation of body shape according to age, sex, season and location       Read more...

 - pathology                                                                                                                   Read more...       

   

 

Huemul shapes, however, frequently do not look much different from many other deer species, and if the long hair coat is removed, this becomes more apparent. [see photos]

 

Huemul frequently take a special stance, likely an expression of nervousness or alert as described in other ungulates, which by shear geometry make the animal appear more short-legged. Lastly, there are disease states which affect body shape.