Sambar Deer
Cervus unicolor unicolor
In New Zealand, sambar deer are considered an iconic herd. They are only in the North Island and mostly found on private land.
Size
Sambar are big animals. Stags average 1.4m shoulder height and 245kg in weight, with hinds smaller at 1.1m and up to 157kg.
Colour
Uniform, darkening to almost black in older animals, with tan to rusty red on the rump. Underparts are grey to mid-brown.
Antlers
Only stags grow antlers which are relatively short, heavily pearled and normally with three tines (brow, trez, and terminal). Antlers are grown from January to March, hardening between June and November and cast in November/December.
Rifle and calibre
Suitable calibres include .270, 7mm-08, 30’06, .308 and .303. A calibre and cartridge with high striking energy is recommended as sambar deer have been known to absorb several shots and still escape.
Record Trophy
284 4/8 Douglas Score taken by R.G. Hill at Manawatu circa 1924.
Record Book Qualification
200 Douglas Score