Vietnamese Sika deer set for reintroduction into the wild

The Vietnamese Sika deer (Cervus nippon pseudaxis) is a subspecies of Sika deer native to Vietnam. Currently extinct in the wild, the species is now being reintroduced to its natural habitat.

Historically, the Vietnamese Sika deer was widely distributed across various localities; however, due to habitat loss and hunting, there have been no recorded sightings in the wild since 1990. The Vietnam Red Data Book classifies the species as extinct in the wild, placing it in the same category as the saltwater crocodile, the white-crested laughingthrush, the Javan rhinoceros, and the tiger.

Nevertheless, the species continues to be raised in captivity for velvet antler production and breeding conservation purposes.

As part of a large-scale reintroduction plan aimed at ecosystem restoration, Cuc Phuong National Park will release approximately 60 individuals—comprising both Sika deer and Sambar deer—into the park's core zone in a phased manner. The first phase is scheduled for June 29, involving 19 individuals: nine Sika deer and ten Sambar deer.

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Photo Credit: Nattergal Estate