Story by Bill L. Olson

In a 1988 survey it was estimated there were 39,040 axis deer confined on 293 ranches in 92 counties and free-ranging in only an additional two counties.  This information was included in a report written by Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Max Traweek and Roy Welch in April 1992 entitled Exotics in Texas.  The report, along with other data compiled over the years from game ranches, helps outline habits, characteristics and challenges to native game, particularly whitetails, as well as axis impact on rangelands. Unfortunately, no surveys have been conducted since that time, nor have harvest numbers been recorded.  It is unknown how many axis roam free today.

Axis were first introduced to Texas in 1932.  Since then, more have been imported to stock high fenced game ranches.  Countless others axis deer roam as escapees from game ranches, and in some instances, there are even reports of animals released to open range that now compete with native wildlife.

The typical axis buck stands about 36 inches at the shoulder and will weigh from 145 to 250 pounds live weight.  Doe average about 30 inches at the shoulder and weigh 95-145 pounds.

Axis bucks can have hard antlers any time of the year — they grow and shed antlers on their own biological clock.  Within a herd both axis bucks with hard antler as well as those in velvet will be observed.

The typical configuration of the antlers is one long main beam with two points off of it – one near or just above the base and a second off the upper portion of the main beam.  Trophy antlers will have a main beam length of 30-36 inches with exceptional tine length of 41 inches reported.  Really old bucks’ antlers become flatten near the upper tip like a long dagger or saber.

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