Big Game Axis Deer

Axis Deer

 

 

Uruguay also boasts a substantial population of axis deer. Axis deer are native to India but have been introduced in many locations all over the world. They are similar in size to whitetail deer, but otherwise behave and herd more like elk. The axis deer can be found in Estancia San Cirilo just outside the lodge. Axis deer are so lean that the meat can legally be marketed as fat-free. At 99.8% fat free, the taste is very much like high quality beef . . . and in Uruguay, we know what to do with high quality beef!

What makes hunting for a trophy axis so challenging is that axis deer do not follow the same predictable pattern that is observed with whitetail deer. The males’ rutting activity and antler development varies with each individual, meaning that one buck might have hardened antlers and be looking to breed does while another has just dropped his antlers and has no interest in does. To accommodate these variable stages, the females experience their estrous cycles all year, each cycle lasting around three weeks. For this reason, it often seems that herds have very few or no trophy bucks, when more likely, the bucks have not developed their antlers yet. Good antlers range from 20 to 27 inches, and trophies range from 30 to 36 inches. The opportunity to take a trophy buck certainly exists within our 100,000 acres, and we are more than happy to provide that to interested guests.

 

by Blackriver Outfitters