WHITETAIL BUCK

Odocoileus virginianus

Whitetail Deer, indigenous to the Americas, were first introduced into New Zealand in 1901.  These subsequently died.  A second liberation was made four years later, nine being released on Stewart Island and nine in the Rees Valley. The Wakitipu herd is scattered and sparse,while the Stewart Is herd is plentiful.  The rut period for Whitetail is a little later than that of the Red Deer, usually peaking in May.

Photo caption: Alan Tall