Sambar deer in Australia

Deer – Sambar

Scientific name - Rusa unicolor (previously Cervus unicolor)

Other common names - Sambar deer

Origin - Indian subcontinent and South-east Asia

Distinctive characteristics

Prominent large rounded ears. Very large body size compared with other feral deer species.

Identification

Sambar are Australia’s largest feral deer species. Males may grow to 2.4 m long and weigh 300 kg, and females may grow to 2.4 m long and weigh 230 kg. Their coat is coarse and uniform in colour that varies from red-brown to almost black, but predominately dark brown. They have a light buff colour under the chin. The tail is black with the under-tail and inner sides of the legs paler in colour. When alarmed the tail is raised. The hair around the neck is coarse and mane-like, particularly on mature males. The antlers of mature males usually have three tines, however the number of tines is influenced by animal condition. Antlers may grow up to 75cm in length. Their ear shape resembles that of a bat. They have a distinctive honking/ barking calls when alarmed.

History and Biology

Sambar were introduced into Australia many times between 1861 and 1912. They are often regarded as solitary animals and are almost never found in herds. They are herbivores that graze a wide range of grasses, shrubs and trees, depending on the season and food availability. They are semi-nocturnal preferring to remain hidden during the day. They can breed throughout the year, with a peak in September and October. Sambar can hybridise with rusa and produce fertile offspring. They can also easily swim with their bodies fully submerged and only their head above water.

Distribution

Feral populations of sambar are established in South Australia, Victoria and NSW. They are absent from other states.

Habitat

Prefer closed woodlands, forests and thick timbered farmland.

Damage

Feral sambar are a growing pest threat. They can cause damage to forestry plantations, ornamental gardens and can damage farm fences/gates. They can compete with livestock for pasture, are a major motorway hazard due to the size and semi-nocturnal behaviour. They also damage native vegetation and sensitive habitats.

Control options

Control options for sambar deer are similar to other species, including ground and aerial shooting, trapping and exclusion fencing.

Other species pages