Pending a solution to this, it has been evaluated as data deficient by the IUCN,[1] though as presently defined, it is the most widespread species of brocket.

It is sympatric with the smaller Amazonian brown brocket over much of its range (the latter tends to have significantly lower population densities).

[1] Its body is reddish-brown in color, with a lighter grayish-brown head and neck, and partially blackish legs.

[5] The red brocket browses on vegetation (mainly grasses and tender green roots),[6] preferring fruit and seeds when it is available.

[6] In extreme cases where fruit and fungi become scarce, it may eat stems, bark, petioles, leaves, and animal matter instead.