Hog deer (Axis porcinus) are found in several regions, including their native range in South Asia, specifically Pakistan, northern India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar (Burma). They were also introduced to Sri Lanka, where they have thrived. Outside of Asia, hog deer populations have been established in other countries, including Australia, South Africa, parts of Europe, and the United States.
In Australia, hog deer are found in southeastern Victoria, particularly around Wilson’s Promontory, Bairnsdale, and small offshore islands like Snake Island. These free-ranging populations are the only ones outside of their native range. In the United States, they are found in private properties in Texas, while in Europe, they are in select deer parks.
The hog deer is a small, compact deer with a low, heavy build and relatively short legs. Males typically have a shoulder height of 24 to 29 inches and weigh between 80 to 100 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. Their coloration is typically brown or yellowish-brown, with white spots scattered across their flanks and underparts. The tail is medium-length, well-haired, and often raised in a white “flag” when the deer runs.
Male hog deer possess antlers that are typically three-pointed on each side: a main beam with two tines and a small forked brow tine. The antlers are smaller than those of other deer species, making them a challenging trophy for hunters. Some males may have additional tines, but these are generally non-typical.
The face of the hog deer features a darker brown muzzle and a lighter buff color around the eyes. Their short coat is well-suited to their environment, and they are well adapted for life in dense brush and wetland areas.
Hog deer are usually found alone or in pairs, but occasionally they can be seen in small groups of 3-4 individuals. They are primarily diurnal, though they may become nocturnal in areas with high hunting pressure. These deer are alert and quick to react to danger, often rushing through tall grass with their heads down, resembling a pig as they move. This behavior is part of the reason they are called “hog deer.”
Hog deer have excellent eyesight, hearing, and smell, which makes them difficult to approach. They are known to be particularly alert, especially when in dense vegetation, where they can hide easily from predators and hunters alike. When alarmed, they emit a whistling sound followed by a coughing bark. During the rutting season, males grunt loudly and may engage in fierce battles for dominance and access to females.
Breeding occurs annually, with males competing for females during the rut, which typically peaks in February and March in Australia. Females usually give birth to a single fawn, and the young are born in the warmer months, generally in late spring or early summer.
Hog deer are found in a variety of habitats, including grassy plains, swamps, and river flats with dense vegetation. They are especially fond of areas that are close to water, such as marshy environments or wetlands. Their low, heavy build is adapted to maneuvering through thick brush, and they are excellent swimmers, often found in water up to their bellies while foraging.
In Australia, hog deer are most commonly found in southeastern Victoria, where they thrive in the dense vegetation near marshes, rivers, and coastal areas. Their habitat preferences also extend to sandy coastal plains and scrubby areas with ample cover, where they can stay hidden from predators.
In their native range, hog deer are found in Pakistan, northern India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. They are also present in Sri Lanka, where they were introduced by the Portuguese or Dutch in the 16th century. In Australia, hog deer populations are concentrated in southeastern Victoria, specifically around Wilson’s Promontory and Bairnsdale, and on small offshore islands like Snake Island. These populations are the only free-ranging hog deer outside their native range.
In the United States, hog deer are found on private properties in Texas, where they were introduced during the 1930s and 1940s. There are also a few populations in Europe, particularly in select deer parks in countries like Spain and France.
Hog deer hunting is an exciting and challenging pursuit due to the deer’s elusive nature and alertness. The best times to hunt are early morning and late afternoon, when the deer are most active. Because hog deer are often found in thick vegetation, hunters must use stealth and patience to track them effectively. Their keen senses of smell, sight, and hearing mean that hunters need to approach carefully and be aware of wind direction.
The rutting season presents a unique opportunity for hunters, as the males are more active and vocal during this time. During the rut, males can be heard grunting, which makes them easier to locate. However, hunting during this period requires careful planning, as the animals are more likely to be in cover and harder to approach.
In Australia, hunting hog deer requires knowledge of the dense habitats they frequent. Southeastern Victoria offers excellent hunting opportunities, especially in the marshy areas near rivers and coastal plains. Hunters in the United States can hunt hog deer in Texas, where they must navigate private estates and thick brush.
With their small size and quick movements, hog deer offer an exciting challenge for hunters who enjoy pursuing agile, alert animals in varied and often challenging terrain.
