Deer Pictures

Axis Deer pictures feature a moderately large, spotted and very refined animal with slender antlers. The body length of males averages 1.7 m; the shoulder height is about 0,9 m. The weight of males ranges between 30 and 75 kg. Females are much smaller than males and lack antlers. The weight of a female Axis deer is 25-45 kg.

Ancient Deer pictures show that for many centuries, Axis Deer inhabited India where they were a common prey for numerous predators as well as a game animal for hunters. In the 1930s, the species was introduced to the USA. Anatomically, this species is more closely allied to the North American elk than to the native American deer. Several southern and central states have numerous free-ranging herds of Axis Deer. These animals are the most abundant ungulate introduced to the USA. Axis Deer herds range from a few animals to several hundreds. The leader of the herd is an old doe. Adult males in this species live together with the herd, unlike many other deer species.

Axis Deer are very graceful and dignified. Many people come to Texas and other areas within their range not to hunt them, but to take Deer pictures. The preferred habitat of the Axis Deer is a secondary forest with many various forbs, herbs, grasses, and shoots. Paspalum, switchgrass, bluestem and other grasses less than 10 cm high is a favorite food of the Axis Deer. Drinking water is very important for these animals and they are likely to be seen near small rivers, lakes and springs.

Axis Deer bucks have their own reproductive cycle, which helps avoid tension, because when one or several bucks come into rut, others are not interested in does. Females are able to breed several times throughout the year with cycles lasting for 3 weeks. If a herd is large enough, every male has an opportunity to find a receptive female. Lone males and those who cannot find a doe in the herd roam searching for other herds. Fights between males are very rare. Taking Deer pictures during the rut is not dangerous, as males display aggression only to rival males and pay no attention to humans.