The sika deer, a member of the even-toed ungulate suborder and the deer family, was classified as a first-class national protected species in China in 1988. Native to the forested and mountainous regions of northeastern China, these animals are typically found in dense woodlands. Sika deer are herbivorous, primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, bark, and wild fruits.
Historically, the use of velvet antlers for medicinal purposes dates back to 168 AD. The domestication of wild sika deer began in the mid-11th century. During the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period, deer were more commonly seen, and their population flourished during the Qing Dynasty. However, by the late Qing period, wild populations declined, making it difficult to meet the demand for deer products. This led to the rise of captive farming. For centuries, deer were reserved for royal and aristocratic use, but after 1950, large-scale deer farming began in northern China.
Sika deer have significant economic and medicinal value. Their meat, liver, and lips are considered delicacies, with the lip being one of China’s eight ancient treasures. They are also valued for their antlers, which are used in traditional medicine and contain up to 25 medicinal components. Beyond their utility, sika deer are admired for their beauty, intelligence, and vibrant appearance, making them highly ornamental.
**Physiological Characteristics:**
Sika deer reach sexual maturity between 8 and 18 months, with full maturity around age three. Adult males weigh between 80–155 kg, while females range from 50–87 kg. Mating occurs seasonally, typically from September to November. During this time, males become highly active and competitive, often leading to injuries. A single male may mate with 20–30 females annually. Does give birth once a year, usually with one or two offspring. The gestation period lasts 225–245 days, and newborns weigh approximately 5 kg.
**Factors Affecting Growth:**
Genetics, diet, management practices, and climate all play a role in the growth and development of sika deer.
**Deer Farm Construction:**
A suitable site for a deer farm should be on elevated, well-drained land facing south or southeast with a slope of about 5 degrees. It should avoid areas prone to flooding or located near industrial zones. Adequate feed supply is essential, with each deer requiring about 350–400 kg of concentrate and 1,200–1,500 kg of roughage annually. Clean water sources must be nearby, and the farm layout should include production, auxiliary, and living areas.
**Nutritional Needs and Feed:**
Deer require a balanced diet of roughage (hay, straw, leaves), green feed (pasture, vegetables), concentrates (grains, legumes), root crops (carrots, beets), and inorganic salts (calcium, phosphorus). Special feeds like urea and probiotics may also be included.
**Breeding Techniques:**
Proper feeding, estrus detection, and breeding scheduling are crucial. High-quality personnel should manage breeding herds, ensuring optimal age structures and avoiding inbreeding. Regular health checks and proper nutrition are essential for successful reproduction.
**Disease Prevention:**
Maintaining hygiene, timely vaccinations, and strict quarantine measures are vital for preventing disease outbreaks. A comprehensive sanitation system includes feed and water management, housing cleanliness, and farm control protocols.
**Feeding and Management Practices:**
During the velvet growth period (April–August), male deer require high-protein diets to support antler development. Breeding management involves increasing protein intake and improving semen quality. Winter feeding focuses on energy-rich foods to help deer survive cold months. Proper nutrition throughout the year ensures good health and reproductive performance.
**Reproductive Management:**
Female deer go through several stages, including breeding, pregnancy, and lactation. Each stage requires specific dietary adjustments to support fetal development, milk production, and overall health. Effective breeding programs aim to improve genetic traits and increase population size while maintaining quality.
In summary, raising sika deer involves careful attention to their physiological needs, environmental conditions, and breeding practices. With proper management, they can thrive in captivity and contribute significantly to both economic and cultural values.
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