Deer Species (Antlered Game)

Explore the World of Deer Hunting with Outdoors International

From the iconic Whitetail Deer of North America to the majestic Red Stag of Europe and New Zealand, and the diverse array of exotic deer species found across the globe, Outdoors International connects hunters with premier guided hunting experiences. Our expert consultants work with a network of vetted outfitters, lodges, and ranches worldwide to help you pursue your desired deer trophy. Below are some of the many deer species (members of the family Cervidae) that hunters can target through our services:

North American Deer & Cervids

• Whitetail Deer (Odocoileus virginianus): North America's most popular big game animal, found across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, with numerous subspecies and diverse hunting experiences from dense woodlands to open plains.
• Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus): Iconic deer of the American West, known for their large ears and impressive antlers. Includes subspecies like the Rocky Mountain Mule Deer and Sitka Blacktail Deer (coastal Pacific Northwest).
• Blacktail Deer (Columbian & Sitka - Odocoileus hemionus columbianus/sitkensis): Found along the Pacific coast from California to Alaska.
• Coues Whitetail Deer (Odocoileus virginianus couesi): A small, elusive subspecies of whitetail found in the desert Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico) and Mexico, often called the "grey ghost."
• Elk / Wapiti (Cervus canadensis): One of North America's largest deer species, with several subspecies including Rocky Mountain Elk, Roosevelt Elk, Tule Elk, and Manitoba Elk. Prized for their large antlers and bugling rituals during the rut.
• Moose (Alces alces): The largest member of the deer family, with subspecies including the Alaska-Yukon Moose, Canada Moose, and Shiras Moose, found across northern North America and Eurasia.
• Caribou / Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus): Found in Arctic and subarctic regions of North America (various subspecies like Barren-ground, Woodland, Quebec-Labrador) and Eurasia (as Reindeer). Known for their impressive, palmate antlers.

European & Asian Deer & Cervids

• Red Deer / Red Stag (Cervus elaphus): A classic European game animal, prized for its large, branching antlers and the thrilling "roar" during the rut. Found throughout Europe, with significant populations also introduced in New Zealand, Argentina, and other regions. Includes various subspecies and related stags.
• Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus): A small, elegant deer common throughout Europe and parts of Asia, popular for stalking and offering a unique trophy.
• Fallow Deer (Dama dama): Native to the Mediterranean region but widely introduced across Europe, the Americas, Australia, and New Zealand. Known for their palmate antlers and spotted coats.
• Sika Deer (Cervus nippon): Native to East Asia, but introduced and widely hunted in the UK, Ireland, parts of Europe, New Zealand, and on exotic game ranches in the USA (especially Texas).
• Muntjac Deer (various Muntiacus species): Small, tusked deer native to South and Southeast Asia, with introduced populations in the UK offering unique hunting opportunities.
• Chinese Water Deer (Hydropotes inermis): A small, tusked deer (lacks antlers) native to China and Korea, with significant introduced populations in the UK (England) and France that are hunted.
• Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus - Eurasian populations): Hunted in parts of Scandinavia and Russia.
• Other regional species like Père David's Deer (primarily captive/estate hunts) or various less common Asian deer where sustainable hunting programs exist.

South American Deer & Cervids

• While many native South American deer are protected or have very limited hunting, introduced populations of Red Deer and Fallow Deer are widely hunted, especially in Argentina and Chile.
• Native species like Marsh Deer, Pampas Deer, and various Brocket Deer are generally not available for international sport hunting due to conservation status, though localized exceptions might exist under strict management.

Exotic & Introduced Deer Species (Popular on Ranches & in Specific Regions)

• Axis Deer / Chital (Axis axis): Native to India, but incredibly popular on Texas exotic game ranches and introduced in Hawaii (USA), Argentina, and Australia, prized for their beautiful spotted coats and large antlers.
• Rusa Deer (various Rusa species): Native to Southeast Asia and Indonesia, with huntable populations (Javan Rusa, Moluccan Rusa) in Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Mauritius, and on some US exotic ranches.
• Many of the species listed under Europe & Asia (Fallow, Sika, Red Stag) are also popular as "exotics" on ranches worldwide, particularly in Texas.

Outdoors International's experienced consultants can help you identify the perfect deer hunting destination and vetted outfitter to pursue your desired species. We consider factors like trophy potential, hunting style (e.g., spot and stalk, high seat, driven hunt where applicable for certain species/regions), terrain, seasonality (including the rut for many species), and your physical condition to ensure a memorable and successful hunting adventure. We also provide guidance on licensing, permits (including CITES where necessary for international transport of trophies), and all travel logistics.

Ready to plan your next deer hunting adventure, whether it's for a familiar favorite or a new exotic species? Contact an Outdoors International consultant today!

Thousands of people have trusted Outdoors International to help plan their hunt.

Our team of consultants are ready to help you book your next hunting trip. Our job it is to help you in researching, booking and planning a great adventure with one of our amazing outfitter partners around the world. Your success is our goal.

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