Examination of useful bait to attract sika deer

Abstract

To clarify suitable bait to attract wild sika deer (Cervus nippon), we surveyed deer preferences for selected baits among 4 type baits (alfalfa hay, timothy hay, alfalfa hay cube, and formula feed) in an experimental forest in Yamanashi Forest Research Institute (N35°33′32.62″, E138°26′27.58″) over 4 seasons with motion-triggered camera. Alfalfa hay was most preferred regardless of season, and the preference order was formula feed, alfalfa hay cube, and timothy hay. Timothy hay was rarely eaten by sika deer. Formula feed was eaten by other animals. In conclusion, we suggest that alfalfa hay is particularly suitable bait to attract sika deer.