These animals were first made known to Western science in the 19th century, by Father Armand David, a French missionary working in China. At the time, the only surviving herd was in a preserve belonging to the Chinese emperor. The last herd of Père David's Deer that remained in China were eaten by Western and Japanese troops that were present at the time of the Boxer Rebellion.

After Father David publicized their existence, a few animals were given (or stolen?) to European countries, and bred there. After the remaining population in China died out, the remaining deer in Europe were gathered to England to be bred for the preservation of the species. The current population stems from this herd.

Adults weigh 150-200 kg (330-440 pounds).

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