Sika Deer (Cervus Nippon)

Long considered sacred in Japan, sika deer are medium-sized Asian deer. It is difficult to determine exactly how many subspecies exist, but scientists generally agree that there are six to fourteen, five of which are listed as endangered in their native lands. The decline of the species in the wild is due to habitat destruction and overhunting. The skin, organs, and flesh of the sika deer were often sought as a result of native folklore for use in medicines and tonics. Herds of sika deer have been transplanted throughout the world, including the United States (particularly in Maryland, Oklahoma, Texas, Wisconsin, and Virginia).

Because there are so many subspecies and because cross-breeding has occurred with red deer and other species, their appearance varies greatly. They are a variety of colors, including yellow-brown, gray-brown, tan, black, gray, chestnut-brown, or reddish-olive. The sika deer’s coat is lighter in the summer, with white spots visible on its back. As mating season approaches and into the winter, its coat darkens. The distinguishing characteristic of the sika deer is its white rump patch. Only the male sika grows antlers, which are shed annually. The sika deer is highly vocal, with the ability to create goat-like bleats, soft neighs, and loud, blood-curdling screams. They are primarily nocturnal, foraging for browse and grasses under the cover of darkness.

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