Cervus nippon

In 1904 three stags and three hinds were gifted by the Duke of Bedford to the New Zealand Government.  These were liberated in the Kaimanawa Ranges.  Also known as “Japanese Deer,” Sika are highly regarded as a trophy animal because of their elusiveness and ability to outwit the hunter.  The best time to hunt these wiley deer is during their rut-mid May.  Like the Fallow Buck, Sika Stags are very aggressive over this period.  The roar of a Sika Stag is a “heehaw” similar to a donkey, quite distinctive from the roar of a Red Stag.

Photo caption: Rex Alexander