Jagdalpur, May 30: A rare Indian mouse deer or spotted Chevrotain has been seen in the Kanger Valley National Park in Chhattisgarh, an official said on Tuesday.

An image of the animal was captured by a trap camera recently, he said. Of the 12 species of deer found in India, the mouse deer is one of the smallest ones, said park director Dhammshil Ganvir. Mouse-Deer Gives Birth in Polish Zoo, Rare Footage Caught on Camera for First Time Ever (Watch Video).

Watch Video: Spotted Chevrotain or Rare Indian Mouse Deer Seen in Kanger Valley National Park

The Indian mouse deer (biological name Moschiola Indica) is found mainly in rainforests of South Asia and Southeast Asia, but it has not been studied much due to its shy behaviour and nocturnal activity, he said. Glue-Traps Banned in West Bengal: On PETA's Request, TMC Government Prohibits Manufacturing, Sale and Use of 'Deadly' Glue-Trap to Eliminate Rodents and Other Small Animals.

The species is facing serious threats due to wildfires, encroachment and poaching, Ganvir said, adding that conservation efforts are needed to save the animal.