Sika deer

Habitat
Adaptable to most landscapes, originally from Southeast Asia but now found in many European countries.

Age
Up to 15 years

Weight
Females: 35 kg
Males: 50 kg

Height
64-109 cm

Gestation Period
7 months

Number of Offspring
1 calf

Conservation Status
Not threatened

Did you know…

• Sika deer originated from Asia but were introduced to Denmark in the 1900s.
• Male sika deer continue to grow until they are 7-10 years old, while females only grow until they are 4-6 years old.
• Sika deer primarily feed on plants, especially grasses and herbs.
• A female sika deer is called a hind, and a male is called a stag.
• Sika deer are shy animals. They can be active during the day, but if there is too much disturbance (such as humans), they become nocturnal.
• Outside of the breeding season, stags form small groups known as “ruckles,” and hinds also form small groups.
• The calf nurses until it is 7-10 months old.
• Sika deer have no natural predators, but they are hunted, and around 400 deer are shot annually in Denmark.
• The population in Denmark is estimated to be around 600 deer, distributed in northeastern Jutland and southwestern Zealand.

Meet the sika deer at Skovridersletten.