Sambar Deer
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (VU)
LIFE SPAN
- In the Wild: Typically 12-20 years
- In Captivity: Can live up to 25 years
Body size
- Length: Approximately 160-250 cm (63-98 inches)
- Height at Shoulder: Around 100-160 cm (39-63 inches)
- Weight: Ranges from 100-350 kg (220-770 lbs), with males generally larger than females.
Native habitat
- Geographical Range: Found in South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
- Habitat: Prefers subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, montane forests, grasslands, and savannas. It can also be found in mixed forest and shrubland areas.
Diet
- Grasses and Leaves: A staple in their diet.
- Fruits and Berries: Especially during certain seasons.
- Herbs and Shrubs: Providing essential nutrients.
- Aquatic Plants: Occasionally consumed when available.
Sri Lankan Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor unicolor)
The Sri Lankan Sambar Deer, a subspecies of the majestic Sambar Deer, is an iconic resident of Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems. Known for its imposing stature and distinctive features, this deer plays a crucial role in the island’s ecological balance.
Physical Characteristics: The Sri Lankan Sambar Deer is the largest deer species on the island, with males (stags) reaching lengths of approximately 160-250 cm (63-98 inches) and standing up to 100-160 cm (39-63 inches) tall at the shoulder. They typically weigh between 100-350 kg (220-770 lbs), with males significantly heavier than females. Their coat is coarse and varies from dark brown to reddish-brown, providing effective camouflage in the forested habitats. Stags sport impressive antlers that can measure up to 110 cm (43 inches) in length.
Habitat: This adaptable deer thrives in a variety of habitats, including subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, montane forests, and grasslands. It is also commonly found near water sources, making use of both natural and human-altered landscapes across Sri Lanka.
Diet: The diet of the Sri Lankan Sambar Deer is herbivorous and diverse, consisting primarily of:
- Grasses and Leaves: Forming the bulk of their diet.
- Fruits and Berries: Consumed seasonally.
- Herbs and Shrubs: Providing essential nutrients.
- Aquatic Plants: Occasionally eaten when available.
Behavior: Sambar Deer are primarily active during dawn and dusk, making them crepuscular in nature. They are known for their solitary habits, though females (hinds) may form small groups with their offspring. During the rutting season, males emit loud, resonating calls to attract females and establish dominance. Their large ears and keen sense of smell aid in detecting predators, while their ability to swim allows them to escape danger by taking to water bodies.
Conservation Status: The Sri Lankan Sambar Deer faces conservation challenges due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict, resulting in its classification as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts focus on protecting its habitats, reducing illegal hunting activities, and mitigating conflicts with local communities to ensure its long-term survival.
Lifespan: In the wild, the Sri Lankan Sambar Deer typically lives between 12-20 years, although individuals in captivity can exceed 25 years with proper care.