Fallow Deer

Dama dama is an introduced deer occurring in scattered New Zealand herds. It differs from other local deer because mature bucks carry broad, palm-shaped antlers. Coat colour ranges from spotted tan to black or nearly white. A white rump bordered in black is conspicuous when the animal runs.

Separate wild populations occur in parts of both main islands. The Blue Mountains of Otago support a well-known herd. It grazes grasses and browses shrubs and seedlings. Bucks croak and defend rutting stands in autumn.

New Zealand treats fallow deer as Introduced. The Blue Mountains near Tapanui are a recognised area, but wild sightings are not guaranteed.