Are the Axis Deer Bigger in Texas?
The axis deer were introduced in Texas in 1932. These exotic creatures are Native to India and were brought to Texas as game meat. Also known as Chital or cheetal, the spotted male deer have large antlers usually over 3 ft long. The axis deer are very boldly golden and covered in white spots make them an attractive trophy. Research shows that when Axis Deer live in open ranges such as those in Texas, they thrive and live longer lives. The Axis Deer size is often compared to those living in India. The India Axis were once the larger species but after decreasing in herds they are no longer a bigger species than those in Texas.
How Do Axis Survive in Texas?
The axis deer love wide open spaces and abundant grass. Once the axis were introduced into Texas in the large open land full of thousands of acres, they were able to acclimate to their environment and eat what grass they find all year round. They eat grasses, herbs, shrubs, fruits, and some suspect a few axis are omnivores.
The axis deer breed year-round. A mother axis deer may give birth twice in a year and live in captivity for over 20 years.
Once ranch owners have taken in the axis deer and feed them well, they tend to live a longer lifespan and their numbers rise over time. As of 1988, there are self-sustaining herds found in 27 countries located in Central and South Texas (Davis, William B., and David J. Schmidly. “Axis Deer”. The Mammals of Texas – Online Edition. Texas Tech University. Retrieved 24 May 2012.).
