Scientific Name
Dama dama
Origin
Mediterranean Europe
Coat Colors
4 natural variations
Average Weight (Buck)
130–200 lbs
Shoulder Height
33–37 inches
Antler Type
Palmated (moose-like)
Breeding Season
October–November
Lifespan
12–16 years
About the Species
FOUR COLORS, ONE
EXCEPTIONAL SPECIES
Fallow Deer (Dama dama) are one of the most visually diverse deer species in the world, naturally occurring in four distinct coat variations: common (tan with white spots), menil (lighter with more distinct spots), melanistic (very dark brown to black), and leucistic (white). This color diversity makes them a popular choice for ranches seeking visual variety.
Native to the Mediterranean region, Fallow Deer were introduced to Texas in the early 20th century and have established thriving populations across the state. Mature bucks develop broad, palmated antlers similar in shape to moose antlers — making them highly distinctive trophy animals with exceptional visual appeal.
4
Natural coat color variations
Oct–Nov
Rut season in Texas
Palmated
Distinctive antler shape
20th C.
Introduced to Texas
Ranch Suitability
IS FALLOW DEER RIGHT
FOR YOUR RANCH?
Ideal Terrain
Management Notes
Revenue Potential
Genetics & Bloodlines
FALLOW DEER GENETICS:
PALMATION, COLOR & TROPHY QUALITY
Fallow Deer genetics are expressed through two primary channels: antler palmation width and coat color morph. Both traits are highly heritable and strongly influence market value. Selective breeding programs in Texas have produced animals with exceptional palm spread, deep brow tines, and consistent color expression — creating a premium genetics market unique to this species.
ELITE
30"+ Palm Spread
Top-tier Fallow bucks with documented 30"+ palm spread and exceptional brow tine development. These animals represent the pinnacle of Fallow genetics and command premium prices at auction and private sale.
TROPHY
22"–30" Palm Spread
Premium hunting and breeding stock. These bucks reliably produce trophy-class offspring and are the backbone of most high-fence Fallow programs. Strong demand at Texas exotic auctions.
FOUNDATION
Under 22" Palm Spread
Quality ranch stock ideal for building herd numbers, hunting leases, and agri-tourism. Excellent value for ranches establishing their first Fallow herd or adding color diversity to an existing operation.
Palmation Genetics
Palm spread and brow tine development are the primary trophy metrics for Fallow bucks. Both traits are highly heritable — bucks with documented wide palms consistently produce offspring with superior antler development. Selecting sires with broad, symmetrical palms is the fastest path to herd improvement.
Coat Color Genetics
Fallow coat color is controlled by a small number of well-understood gene loci. Common (tan/spotted) is dominant; menil, melanistic, and leucistic (white) are recessive variants. White and melanistic animals carry a significant price premium — breeding two white animals guarantees white offspring, making color genetics a predictable revenue tool.
Trophy Scoring
Fallow bucks are scored on palm length, palm width, brow tine length, and beam circumference. The SCI (Safari Club International) system is the most widely used for Fallow. Top-scoring bucks in Texas regularly exceed 200 SCI points. Age at harvest is critical — most bucks do not reach peak palm development until 5–7 years.
Selective Breeding
Texas high-fence operations have been selectively breeding Fallow for both trophy antler traits and color purity for decades. The result is a population of ranch-raised animals with predictable color expression, superior palm development, and calm temperaments — consistently outperforming wild-strain European imports.
Breeding Classifications
Frequently Asked Questions
FALLOW DEER IN TEXAS:
COMMON QUESTIONS
What colors do Fallow Deer come in?
Fallow Deer naturally occur in four color variations: common (tan with white spots, the most common), menil (lighter with more distinct spotting), melanistic (very dark brown to near-black), and leucistic (white). White Fallow Deer are particularly sought after for ranch aesthetics.
How much do Fallow Deer cost in Texas?
Common color Fallow Deer typically sell for $300–$800 per animal. Melanistic and white (leucistic) animals command premium prices, often $1,000–$3,000 or more depending on quality and genetics.
Are Fallow Deer good for Texas ranches?
Yes. Fallow Deer are one of the most adaptable exotic deer species available and thrive across a wide range of Texas habitats. They are relatively easy to manage, visually striking, and provide both hunting and aesthetic value.
When do Fallow Deer rut in Texas?
Fallow Deer rut in Texas typically occurs in October and November. During the rut, bucks become vocal and active, making them exciting to observe and hunt during this period.
Available Now
ADD FALLOW DEER TO
YOUR RANCH
We have Fallow Deer available in multiple color variations. Contact us to discuss availability, genetics, and delivery to your property.
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