Sika deer, also known as spotted deer, are primarily raised for their velvet antlers. Over the years of artificial breeding, several high-quality strains have been developed, including Shuangyang sika deer, Xifeng sika deer, and Changbaishan deer. These breeds are well-known for their superior traits in productivity, genetics, and adaptability.
Shuangyang sika deer is one of the most recognized breeds, developed from native sika populations. They are noted for early maturity and high yield. Adult males stand 101–111 cm tall, with a body length of 103–113 cm and a weight of around 130 kg. Their antlers are wide, deep, and thick, with large, fresh velvet. On average, male deer aged 1–10 saw produce over 2.9 kg of fresh velvet, with 58.2% reaching 3 kg. The breeding survival rate for does is as high as 82%, and newborns weigh between 5.62–5.76 kg. This breed is genetically stable and highly valuable for breeding purposes.
Changbaishan deer, another artificially cultivated variety, was developed from the Fusong-type sika deer. Known for its calm temperament and long productive lifespan, adult males reach a height of 95–117 cm and a body length of 95–115 cm, weighing about 134 kg. Their antlers are broad and full. On average, 1–15 saw males produce 3.16 kg of fresh velvet, with 57.3% exceeding 3 kg. Breeding survival rates for does are around 80%, and newborns weigh between 5.2–6.2 kg.
Xifeng sika deer is another high-yield breed with stable genetic characteristics. Males typically stand 98–108 cm tall, with a body length of 102–109 cm and a weight of 110–130 kg. They have short, thick limbs, a round chest, and a wide head. On average, 1–10 saw males produce 3.06 kg of fresh velvet, with 70.9% reaching 3 kg. Breeding survival rates range from 70–80%, and newborns weigh between 5.8–6.1 kg.
Red deer, also known as elk, are larger than sika deer, with adults weighing between 160–300 kg and standing 1.2–1.4 meters tall. They have a straight back, large rounded ears, a long neck (about one-third of their body length), and long, sturdy legs. Their winter coat is thick and fluffy, gray-brown with yellowish-brown patches on the neck and back. A dark brown stripe runs along the spine, and young deer display more visible markings. Their underbelly and inner legs are pale gray. Male red deer have antlers, while females do not.
Sambar deer, often called black deer or "mountain cow," are found mainly in southern China. They are larger than sika deer, weighing 150–200 kg and standing about 1.3 meters tall. Their bodies are robust, with long necks, vertical ears, and large hooves. Their tail base is thick and pointed, with long black hair. Their coat is stiff on the back and soft on the belly, mostly millet-brown with a dark brown stripe running along the spine. Male sambars have antlers that grow outward, forming a U-shape, with distinct branches and a bony nodule at the base.
Xuzhou Xinbaisheng Protective Equipnent Co., Ltd. , https://www.xinparkson.com