Hog Deer (Axis porcinus), also known as Laguna or Paade is an olive-brown coated medium-sized deer found in lowlands ranging from 75m to 300m above sea level. It is classified as endangered in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. These habitat specialist have strong preference to tall grasslands dominated by Saccharum spontaneum (Dhungel & O’gara, 1985). However, habitat degradation through ecological succession has become a major threat to their survival. Few research has been conducted on Hog deer and their population, distribution, habitat preferences. A quick search of research on Hog deer in Google scholar resulted only 11 article as of (date: October 20, 2024 and prompt allintitle: "Hog Deer" "Nepal").

Conservation Nepal is conducting a detailed study on Hog deer's population, their foraging behavior, habitat use within Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Characterized by expansive floodplains and wetlands, Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is the mosaic of open tall grasslands and riverine forests. It harbors the largest population of Hog deer. The ongoing research incorporates official data from periodic monitoring by the reserve, previous studies, and current field data collected through citizen scientists. The objective is to assess the current status and viability of Hog deer population amidst the changing habitat and to propose effective conservation strategies for ensuring long term survival of these lesser known mammals.