Distribution and current status of Sika Deer, Cervus nippon, in Great Britain

Introduced populations of Sika Deer are established in many parts of Britain and some, particularly in Scotland, are expanding their range rapidly. The taxonomy of Sika Deer and the timing and location of introductions is reviewed and current information on their range expansion and hybridization with Red Deer is provided. The current state of our knowledge of population parameters is insufficient to provide the basis for sound management in the future. The introduction of Sika Deer to Red Deer areas is considered to be irresponsible because of the likelihood of hybridization and the threat to the genetic integrity of Red Deer.