Japanese Sika Deer

Native to Eastern Asia forested areas, fossils indicate their origins may have been Japan. These highly adaptable nocturnal grazers move from marshy areas to dense undergrowth of forests and eat everything from fallen leaves, soy beans, corn, and even poison ivy. They are mottled with white spots, chestnut brown or reddish brown in color and they are considered sacred in Japan and are highly valued in China for their antlers which are used for medicinal purposes.