These are a very exciting deer to hunt as they are very vocal during the rut. They are found in the central NORTH ISLAND of New Zealand.

Originating in Asia they share the particularly aggressive and tough nature that is characteristic of many Asian deer species.  In many areas where Sika are now found they have replaced the original Red deer herds.

Some cross breeding of Sika and Red Deer is known to occur, the resulting hybrids usually carry larger antlers than pure Sika and often display some Red deer characteristics in the antler structure.  Typically Sika have a 4x4 (8 point) antler form.