Jack O'Conner
New member
These amazing deer originate from NE China. A secret species known only to the Royal Court until 1865. The way the story goes, a French Jesuit missionary named Pere (father) Armand David observed these deer through a small hole in the courtyard wall. He made sketches and sent them to his Bishop. The news got out and exitement grew in Europe. But it took over 30 years for the Chinese Royals to be convinced they should share these deer with the world. In 1898, several breeding pair were delivered to an abbey in England where they prospered. Many estates in Europe rec'd breeding stock from these original deer. The Boxer Rebellian of 1900 introduced Communism to China. All deer within the Royal grounds were shot and eaten. Same fate for this species elsewhere in China. The species became extinct in its native lands! 20 years ago, 15 breeding pair were brought from England and released into the wilds of NE China through a Communist-Embassy program. Recently this herd has ben estimated at 2,500 animals!
Yet these deer cont'd to thrive in Europe and USA. Currently a ranch in Nebraska has over 80 breeding pairs. I had a chance to see these deer after simply contacting the ranch and asking for permission to view them.
Pere David deer have long antlers, 30 inches or longer is quite common. They have a tail just like a donkey. Oversize hooves and a heavy mane are other unique features.
For those interested: Trophy hunting for Pere David deer is available in USA, Argentina, UK, and Czech Republic.
Jack