Spotted Deer (Axis Axis)
The most common of all deer found in the subcontinent, it is easily
identifiable by its beautiful golden brown coat that is decorated with
big white spots. An average stag is about 85-90 cm tall at its
shoulder, and weighs 80kg. Unlike other ungulates, the coat of the
spotted deer remains more or less the same throughout the year. Large
herds can be seen in almost all the National Parks of North India.
¤ Spotted Deer - Main Diet of Predatory Animals
To counter attacks from its enemies, the spotted deer has evolved a
unique vigilance system in which the entire herd takes part. The weak
and the sick animals form the periphery of the herd while the cubs and
their mothers remain towards the middle of the group. While grazing,
each and every member of the herd is on the alert. The lookout
habitually lifts its head to try and get a whiff of predators. It
stands still to sense danger. If the threat is for real, it stomps its
hind legs, and emits a shrill call – a signal for the entire herd
to flee to a safer area.
Memorandum of Understanding
The spotted deer has what can be called a 'memorandum of
understanding', with lemurs. Lemurs keep it informed about any
possible attack from its predators. The spotted deer also benefits
from the leftovers that lemurs keep dropping from trees. In fact, the
relation between the two species is so symbiotic that they explore the
jungle together.
Another interesting fact about the spotted deer is that it does not
wallow during the rut (and why should it, given its beautiful golden
coat). Instead it emits a shrill call, and walks proudly, displaying
its antlers. The mating season of the spotted deer is not very well
defined and varies in different parts of the country. The species
breeds once every six months, and the litter comprises of a single
fawn.
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