It is the most beautiful of all the deer. They are mostly seen in large herds of 30 - 50 females with a few stags. However, it is not uncommon to see large herds of bachelors numbering upto 100. They grow to a height of approximately 90 cms. at the shoulders and can weigh up to 85 kgs. Their life expectancy ranges from 20 - 30 years. These deer can be seen in dense jungle as well as open grasslands. The main factor behind their location is the presence of water.
Their diet consists of all kinds of vegetation but grass is the favourite. They also eat the antlers that they shed for their rich nutrients. They are often seen under trees housing Langurs for two reasons. Firstly, due to their higher perch, the langurs forewarn them about approaching danger and secondly, the tidbits dropped by the Langurs make easy pickings for a meal.
The breeding season not specific . It can be in both the summer or winter. However, it is mostly seen during the summers, when males can be seeing throwing their heads back and letting out loud mating calls.
It is found across the entire country except in the extreme northern regions. The wildlife parks most famous for their spotted deer populations are Corbett, Ranthambhore, Kanha, Dudhwa, Bandhavgarh, Mudumalai and Sariska.
