Sambar Facts | India Wildlife Guide

Sambar refers to several subspecies of large, maned Asian deer, particularly those found in India. These deer typically range in height from 40 to 63 inches at the shoulder and usually weigh between 200 and 800 pounds, though they can reach weights of 1,200 pounds. They have dark brown coats with chestnut markings on their undersides and rump. Sambar males have majestic antlers that can exceed 40 inches in length; each antler has three tines (forks) with simple brow tines and fork-tipped beams.

Sambars inhabit tropical regions but can be found from the coasts to high elevations such as the deciduous forests of the Himalayas. They are active during the day and are never far from water. Sambar deer browse the forest for grasses, coarse shrubs, herbs and occasionally fruit. They are a favored prey of Bengal tigers: 60 percent of the tiger’s diet may be attributed to sambar. Asiatic lions, crocodiles, leopards and dholes also hunt these deer.

Sambar deer typically breed between September and January, though mating may occur throughout the year. During the rut, solitary males aggressively guard their territories against members of the same sex. A male may have an entire group of females in his territory, which are attracted by his olfactory displays and rutting calls. The gestation period lasts around nine months, and a single fawn is typically born. Their coats are dappled brown with light spots that fade soon after birth. The young stay by their mother’s side until 2 years of age.

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