Sikawild

Description

Sikawild is an animal enclosure at Bayern-Park, home to Japanese sika deer, one of 13 subspecies of the sika deer. The animals are herbivores, feeding on grasses, leaves, herbs, shoots, and bark. During the winter months, the diet is supplemented with hay and silage. Males weigh between 45 and 70 kg, while females range from 30 to 45 kg. Twice a year the deer change their coat: the summer coat is rust-brown with white spots, while the winter coat is dark brown and unspotted. The sika deer are social animals, though they form small groups consisting primarily of females. Males are generally solitary and carry antlers, which are relatively modest compared to other deer species. The natural lifespan is around 10 years, though animals kept in human care often live longer. The deer at Bayern-Park are notably approachable. Curious by nature, they frequently come close to the fence, making direct observation by visitors a regular part of the experience.