An Introduction to Sika Deer Farming Techniques and Key Feeding Management Points

The sika deer gets its name from the white spots on its summer coat that resemble plum blossoms, and it is one of the common specialty farmed animals. Sika deer are farmed mainly to obtain deer antler velvet; in addition, by-products such as venison, deer blood and deer hide also have corresponding value, so farmers in quite a few regions are engaged in this industry.

Sika deer are alert by nature, timid and easily startled, prefer living in groups, and have fairly strong adaptability, but they fear heat and dampness. Stags have an antler-growing season each year, and harvesting the velvet at the right time is a key part of farming returns; the specific operation should be carried out by experienced personnel so as not to injure the deer or affect subsequent antler growth.

In terms of feeding, sika deer are ruminants and live mainly on roughage such as green grass, tree leaves and crop straw, supplemented with an appropriate amount of concentrate and minerals to ensure balanced nutrition. Deer sheds should be built in places with higher elevation, good drainage and a quiet environment; the fencing must be sturdy, and the enclosure should be kept dry and disinfected regularly to reduce the occurrence of disease.

It should be noted that the wild population of sika deer is protected by law, and before starting captive farming, relevant permits such as those for domestication and breeding should be handled in accordance with the law. Beginners should first learn farming techniques and understand the local market and policies before introducing stock on a moderate scale, so as to avoid losses caused by blind investment.