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Hunters interested in harvesting this elusive miniature Elk-like exotic of Maryland will find the field dressed weight of females to run between 45 and 55 pounds. The larger males rarely exceed 100 pounds. A six pointer (three x three) is considered a trophy Stag and some eight pointers, though rare, are found in the area. Color ranges from brown to almost black, some with white spots down their back. They have a round white rump area, similar to Antelope, that flares when they are excited or alarmed. Males generally have a dark shaggy mane running down their neck. Sika deer are noctural and inhabit marshy terrain, making hunting them a true challenge. |
The Sika rut occurs in the mid-October timeframe and is considered the best time to harvest a mature Stag. During this period males become very vocal by bugling, primarily late afternoon through early morning. All Sika sound a sharp bark like sound when alarmed. They become very territorial, gather a harem (12 - 18) and mark their territory by making wallows (scrapes) that they urinate in, then wallow in it causing them to produce a very strong odor. The rut generally results in increased movement by the males, allowing these Stags to be seen during all hours of the day. Only about 75% of the cows become pregnant and have only one fawn, twins are very rare.
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