How to Raise Sika Deer

Sika deer originated from Siberia, Japan, China and Taiwan, and were brought to the United States in 1916. They are reddish brown to black and can weigh between 150 and 220 pounds. Sika deer have calm temperaments and are typically docile and easy to handle, though they can bite when provoked. Sika deer are sturdy, hardy animals that do well when farmed in the United States.

Things You'll Need

  • Land with pasture and access to water
  • Buildings
  • Fencing
  • Feed
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Instructions

    • 1

      Acquire the land and building you will need to house your deer. You will require a building for housing the deer in inclement weather and plenty of pasture for grazing. Year-round access to water is crucial as well.

    • 2

      Install fencing around your property. Since deer can jump most regular fences, you will want to install a higher deer fence. Place gates in the corners of the yard, rather than the center, since deer tend to run to the corners when chased.

    • 3

      Build handling facilities. You will need holding pens and catching facilities when it is necessary to vaccinate, tag or examine the deer. Build a raceway entry ramp, receiving corral, small shed with a mechanical restraining system and a load-out ramp.

    • 4

      Purchase deer. You may want to start with a small number of deer:10 to 20. After you gain some experience and feel comfortable in your knowledge, you can acquire more. A small deer farm operation will have at least 75 to 100 deer.

    • 5

      Locate a veterinarian. You should work together to come up with an animal management program. Your deer will need to have vaccinations and should be wormed twice a year. There are several diseases that can affect your sika deer. They include brucellosis, tuberculosis, anaplasmosis, tissue clostridium and many parasitic diseases. Your veterinarian should be familiar with the diseases in your area.

    • 6

      Provide plenty of grass and hay for your deer. Sika deer love to browse and graze, much like sheep. During the winter they will need additional corn and a grain-based pellet with added vitamins.

    • 7

      Provide water. Sika deer need plenty of water for drinking and should also have some spots in the yard to wallow.

    • 8

      Prepare for mating season. The bucks in your herd will be mature enough to rut at 16 months and will mate with 10 to 15 does. Rutting typically begins in October. Gestation for sika deer is around 230 days.