Population Characteristics of an Insular Fallow Deer ( Dama dama L.) population on Little St. Simons Island, Georgia, U.S.A.

We describe population characteristics including body weight, antler measurements, pelage, population density, and reproduction of an introduced population of fallow deer ( Dama dama L. ) on Little Saint Simons Island, Georgia, USA. Between 2002 and 2006, we obtained data from 181 hunter-harvested deer. Adult males (n=45) averaged 48.8 kg ± 2.6 kg SE and females (n=34) averaged 35.7 kg ± 1.4 kg SE. Based on seasonal spotlight surveys sex ratios averaged 1.2:1 bucks to does, and recruitment estimated at 0.5 fawns per doe. Herd density was estimated at 47.3 deer/km 2 . Lek behavior was common and peak rut occurred in early to middle October. Fallow deer on LSSI demonstrated low body weights and antler measurements, high population density, and depressed reproduction. Based on these characteristics, further investigation is needed to assess herd health and food availability. A reduction in deer density may be warranted.