Sika deer is a species of deer found in East Asia. It is also known as the spotted deer or Japanese deer.

Sika deer are medium-sized deer, with males (stags) growing up to four feet at the shoulder and weighing up to 200 pounds, while females (hinds) are smaller, growing up to three feet tall and weighing up to 100 pounds.

They are known for their distinctive spotted coats, which are brown in summer and gray-brown in winter.

Sika deer are primarily found in forested areas, particularly in Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and China.

Plum deer live in forest edges and mountain grassland areas, not in dense forests or thickets, which is conducive to fast running.

In their native habitats, sika deer play an important role in the ecosystem and help to maintain healthy forest habitats.

The stags tend to live alone, and their activities are concentrated in the morning and at dusk. It mainly feeds on grasses, fruits, herbs, tree buds, trees, and crops.

Sika deer are known for their adaptability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

They can survive in a variety of habitats, from mountain forests to grasslands and wetlands, and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.

Despite their adaptability, sika deer populations have faced several threats over the years.

The plum deer is abundant in Japan and the number of individuals is still increasing, making it classified as low risk by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature).

However, in North Korea and Vietnam, populations are at risk of extinction.

In China, due to excessive capture and hunting, the wild population is extremely small and its distribution is fragmented, making it an endangered species.

Habitat loss and fragmentation, overhunting, and competition with other deer species have all contributed to declines in sika deer populations in some areas.

To help protect sika deer populations, several conservation efforts have been put in place.

These efforts include habitat restoration, hunting management programs, and public education programs designed to raise awareness about the importance of sika deer and their role in the ecosystem.

Overall, the sika deer is a fascinating and important species that plays an important role in East Asian ecosystems.

By working together to protect sika deer populations and their habitats, we can help to ensure that these beautiful animals continue to thrive for generations to come.