Oh Deer! Axis have appeared!

With the official start of Spring now passed, Blue Hole Park has leaped into action! Sightings of the elusive Axis Deer herd have begun to appear on game cameras, primarily near Cypress Creek. Although most commonly settled in the Edwards Plateau, axis deer will often find ranges in places with a proper balance of food, water, and cover. Despite their unique appearance, these deer are not as glamorous as they appear.

About Axis Deer:

Also known as chital or spotted deer, axis deer can be recognized by their distinctive orange coat with white spots, which resemble those of a whitetail fawn. First introduced to Texas in the 1930s, axis deer were brought over from India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. At first, these deer were contained on small farms or private hunting sites. Since their introduction, however, many axis deer have escaped captivity, free-ranging in Texas for the last 80 years, with the Exotic Wildlife Association having estimated a population of 6,000 in 2028.

Their Effect:

As they are not native to Texas, axis deer are considered invasive to the state. This is because axis deer can occupy the same ecological niche as whitetail deer. This means that axis deer compete with native whitetail populations for resources, usually forbs and water. Axis deer also have a higher resistance to native diseases, resulting in axis deer populations growing out of control. Local farmlands are also at risk from axis deer foraging in fields or gardens.

How to combat invasive species:

Despite their negative effect on native Texas wildlife populations, there are many ways to control and prevent harm from these invasive species and actions you may take to preserve the biodiversity of your local ecosystem. At Blue Hole, by observing and monitoring the spread of axis deer among local whitetail populations through game trail cameras, we can plan early on what management strategies must be employed and the actions needed to maintain a thriving whitetail habitat. In addition, efforts such as community volunteering and planting native forb species in the whitetail diet will also contribute to a healthier and more diverse environment for whitetail populations.

By: Kirsa Becker