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Strange cervid
The Question
Dear Ken,
My friend Sean Wadelius took this photo on the bank of the Fraser River, near Chilliwack B.C. What is the unusual “cow” pattern in the deer? Is it cross breeding?
John Bodnar
Houston, B.C.
The Answer
Though uncommon, this is clearly a piebald deer. This colouration is a result of a genetic disposition—typically a recessive gene—rearing its head. Think albinism, though piebald doesn’t result in the pink eyes, etc., seen in an albino animal. But both are the result of genetics at play. No cows in the mix for this one!
Cheers,
Ken Bailey
Based in Edmonton, Outdoor Canada's longtime hunting editor Ken Bailey has hunted every major Canadian game animal, in every corner of the country. For many years, he’s shared his deep knowledge of game behaviour, and wide expertise with all manner of firearms with OC's readers. His work has been recognized numerous times by both the Outdoor Writers of Canada and the National Magazine Awards. Ken is a committed conservationist, dedicated to habitat preservation, sustainable harvests, and passing along our hunting heritage to the next generation. He's also an avid fly fisherman, and a pretty darn good game chef.
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sundyrider
Sep. 26, 2012
8:17 pm
I have a picture taken in chilliwack of an identical deer .It was in company with a typical blacktail just browsing in a field near the vedded river 30 years ago
sundyrider
Sep. 26, 2012
8:17 pm
I have a picture taken in chilliwack of an identical deer .It was in company with a typical blacktail just browsing in a field near the vedded river
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