Chinese Water Deer Stalking And Hunting Around The World
CHINESE WATER DEER / CHINESE WATER DEER BUCKS / TROPHY CHINESE WATER DEER / RED DEER HINDS / RED HINDSYear Round Hunting, Exceptional Hospitality, Quality Trophies, Hunting For Meat
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Chinese Water Deer
SHOOTING STYLE
DRIVEN | HIGH SEAT | SPOT AND STALK
LOCATION
VARIOUS
SEASON
ALL YEAR DEPENDING ON COUNTRY
Hunting Chinese water deer offers a unique and intriguing experience, given their distinctive appearance and behavior. Native to the river valleys and wetlands of China and Korea, these small deer are notable for their lack of antlers and prominent tusks, which give them a striking, almost prehistoric look. Their introduction to the United Kingdom in the late 19th century has led to established populations, particularly in the wetlands of Norfolk, Bedfordshire, and Cambridgeshire.
In the UK, hunting Chinese water deer is a popular pursuit, especially during the winter months when their dense, reddish-brown coats stand out against the frosty landscape. Hunters value them for their elusive nature and the challenge they present, as well as the unique trophy of their tusks.
Outside the UK, opportunities to hunt Chinese water deer are more limited but can be found in their native ranges under specific regulations. The hunt is not just about the chase but also about conserving and managing populations to ensure their sustainability. Chinese water deer hunting offers a fascinating blend of tradition and conservation, allowing hunters to engage with one of the world’s most unique deer species.
From £300
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CHINESE WATER DEER HUNTING DESTINATIONS
Chinese Water Deer Stalking In England
Chinese water deer hunting in England offers a unique and thrilling experience, particularly in the wetlands of Norfolk, Bedfordshire, and Cambridgeshire. Introduced in the early 20th century, these deer have established thriving populations in the English countryside. Hunters are drawn to the challenge of pursuing these small, elusive deer, notable for their prominent tusks rather than antlers. The hunt typically involves stalking through marshlands and reed beds, requiring patience and skill. This distinctive hunting experience, set against England’s picturesque landscapes, provides both a fascinating pursuit and a contribution to the management and conservation of the species.
Chinese Water Deer Hunting In China
Chinese water deer hunting in China offers a captivating blend of tradition and adventure amidst the country’s diverse landscapes. Native to China’s river valleys and wetlands, these unique deer present a challenging pursuit for hunters. Guided by experienced outfitters, enthusiasts venture into picturesque terrain, their senses heightened by the anticipation of encountering these elusive creatures. With the backdrop of ancient forests and tranquil waterways, each hunt is a test of skill and patience. Chinese water deer hunting in China is not just a sport but a cherished tradition, fostering a deep connection to nature and heritage in the heart of this beautiful country.
Chinese Water Deer Hunting In Korea
hinese water deer hunting in Korea offers a captivating blend of tradition and adventure amidst the country’s picturesque landscapes. Hunters stalk through marshes and wetlands, their senses heightened by the anticipation of encountering these unique creatures. Guided by experienced outfitters or venturing independently, each hunt is a test of skill and patience. Against the backdrop of serene rivers and lush vegetation, Chinese water deer hunting in Korea is a cherished tradition and an unforgettable experience. Whether pursued for sport or sustenance, the hunt fosters a deep connection to nature and heritage in the heart of this beautiful Asian country.
Year Round Hunting In Various Countries.
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CHINESE WATER DEER – MORE INFORMATION
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The Red Deer
The Chinese water deer (Hydropotes inermis) is a unique and fascinating species, notable for its distinct characteristics that set it apart from other deer. Native to the river valleys, marshes, and wetlands of China and Korea, these small deer are most recognizable for their lack of antlers and their prominent tusks, which resemble those of a saber-toothed cat. These tusks, actually elongated canine teeth, are more pronounced in males and are used during mating displays and territorial disputes.
Physically, Chinese water deer are small and compact, with adults typically weighing between 20 to 30 pounds and standing about 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder. Their coat is reddish-brown in summer, turning to a dull gray-brown in winter, providing effective camouflage in their natural habitats. They have large, rounded ears and a short, bushy tail, which add to their distinctive appearance.
Behaviorally, Chinese water deer are solitary or found in small groups, except during the breeding season. They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. Their diet consists mainly of grasses, reeds, and other vegetation, which they forage for in their wetland habitats.
Reproduction involves a short rutting season in November and December. After a gestation period of about six to seven months, females give birth to multiple fawns, often twins or triplets, and sometimes even quadruplets, which is unusual for deer species.
Chinese water deer have been introduced to other parts of the world, most notably the United Kingdom, where they have established robust populations since their introduction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In the UK, they thrive in the wetlands of Norfolk, Bedfordshire, and Cambridgeshire, where they have become a popular quarry for hunters.
Conservation concerns for Chinese water deer in their native range include habitat loss and hunting pressure. However, their successful establishment in the UK provides an interesting case of an introduced species flourishing in a new environment. Hunting regulations in the UK are well-managed to ensure sustainable populations, making Chinese water deer a unique and sought-after game species.
The Chinese water deer is a testament to the diversity of the deer family, showcasing unique adaptations and behaviors that intrigue biologists, conservationists, and hunters alike. Their distinctive appearance and ecological niche make them a fascinating subject of study and a prized quarry in the regions where they are found.
SCI Red Deer Scoring
The Safari Club International (SCI) scoring system for Chinese water deer is designed to standardize the measurement and evaluation of these unique trophies, particularly focusing on their prominent tusks. Unlike most deer species, Chinese water deer are scored based on the length and characteristics of their tusks rather than antlers. Here’s how the SCI scoring process typically works for Chinese water deer:
Tusk Length: The primary measurement is the length of each tusk. This is taken from the gum line to the tip of the tusk along the outside curve. Both tusks are measured individually.
Circumference: Some scoring systems may also take into account the circumference of the tusks at the base, near the gum line, to gauge the thickness and overall size of the tusks.
Symmetry: The symmetry between the two tusks can be a factor, with more symmetrical tusks often scoring higher. However, this is secondary to the overall length and size.
Condition: The condition of the tusks, including any breakages or wear, may affect the score. Trophies with intact, undamaged tusks generally receive higher scores.
Quality and Uniqueness: Additional points may be given for the quality and uniqueness of the tusks, including any distinctive features that make the trophy stand out.
To calculate the total score, the measurements of each tusk are taken and then combined to give a final score. This score helps hunters compare their trophies to others and can be used to enter the deer into the SCI record books if it meets certain thresholds.
Where Can You Hunt Red Deer?
Here is a list of countries where you can hunt Chinese water deer:
- United Kingdom: Particularly in areas such as Norfolk, Bedfordshire, and Cambridgeshire, where they have established strong populations.
- China: Native range hunting opportunities may be available under specific regulations.
- South Korea: Native populations exist, and hunting may be possible under regulated conditions.
These are the primary countries where Chinese water deer hunting is feasible. The United Kingdom is the most prominent destination for hunting this unique species due to well-managed populations and established hunting traditions.
Chinese Water Deer Seasons
Seasons vary each year and from country to country so please get in touch for more details.