About the Fallow Deer
The fallow deer is one of the most popular and visually striking big game species in the world, renowned for their unique antlers and diverse coat colors.
Distinctive Characteristics of the Fallow Deer
- The Antlers: Unlike the pointed tines of a Red Stag, mature Fallow bucks grow large, flat, palmated antlers that resemble those of a moose. They feature sharp tines projecting from the rear edge, known as “spellers.”
- Four Color Phases: Fallow deer are unique because they exist in four distinct color variations, all occurring naturally within the same herd:
- Common: Rich chestnut coat with white spots in summer, turning dark grey-brown in winter.
- Menil: A lighter, tan-colored coat heavily covered in distinct white spots year-round.
- Melanistic (Chocolate): A striking, dark brown to near-black coat. These are highly prized by trophy hunters.
- Albinistic (White): A pure white coat, though they are not true albinos as they have dark eyes.
- Size: Fallow Deer are a medium-sized deer with mature bucks typically weighing between 130–220 pounds, while the Fallow does weigh around 65–110 pounds.
Behavior and the “Rut” of the Fallow Deer
- The Rut: During the breeding season (known as the rut), bucks make a deep, guttural sound called a “croak” to declare their territory and attract does.
- The Rut Timing: In the Southern Hemisphere (like New Zealand), the Fallow rut takes place in April and May. This is the prime time for hunting, as bucks lose their usual caution, become highly aggressive, and frequently fight for dominance.
- Senses: Fallow deer have exceptional eyesight and a keen sense of smell. They are incredibly agile, capable of jumping high fences and disappearing into thick brush with remarkable speed.
Fallow Deer Hunting Experience
Fallow deer prefer edge habitats where heavy timber meets open spaces. They are notorious for being twitchy and alert, making a spot-and-stalk hunt or hunting from a blind a true test of a hunter’s patience and stealth.
Suitable Weapons
Hunting Area
Fallow deer are one of the most widely introduced deer species in the world, making them available to hunt across multiple continents. Depending on whether you want a free-range mountain hunt or an estate hunt, you can pursue them in several premier destinations.
Oklahoma and Texas Fallow Deer Hunting
You do not have to leave North America to hunt Fallow deer, as they thrive on private ranches across the American South. While most Fallow deer in the country live inside high-fenced hunting preserves and deer farms, true wild, low-fence, and free-roaming herds exist across several states. Oklahoma and Texas are the epicenter for exotic hunting in the U.S. Many large hunting preserves and ranches offer highly successful guided hunts for trophy Fallow bucks. When your regular hunting season ends but you aren’t ready to pack up your gear, arrange a Fallow Deer hunt. You can hunt them year-round because they are classified as an exotic species.
New Zealand Fallow Deer Hunting
New Zealand’s South Island is globally recognized as the top destination for world-class Fallow deer. They are hunted in dramatic mountain valleys on managed estates, often alongside Red Stag. The region consistently produces elite SCI Gold class bucks exceeding 230″, with excellent populations of all four color phases, including the highly prized chocolate phase.
South Africa
While famous for plains game and dangerous game safaris, South Africa also offers Fallow Deer hunting. Introduced in the 19th century, Fallow Deer are found on private game ranches primarily in the Eastern Cape and Free State provinces, providing a unique add-on to a traditional African safari.
Europe
Fallow Deer are deeply rooted in European hunting culture, where herds have been managed for centuries. Highly successful estate and park hunts are available across Spain, England, Scotland, and Ireland.
