The mouse deer, also known as chevrotain, is a small and delicate hoofed mammal native to South and Southeast Asia. Despite its size, it has a strong resemblance to both mice and deer, thus, the name "mouse deer." However, this creature has various synonyms depending on the region. In Indonesia, it's called "kancil," in Malaysia "pelanduk," in Thailand "ngew," and in the Philippines "balabac." These synonyms may have different origins and meanings but they all refer to the same animal that possesses features of both rodents and ungulates. Whether it's called a mouse deer, chevrotain, or any of its regional names, it remains a unique and fascinating creature worth studying and protecting.