The correct spelling for the species commonly referred to as the "Japanese Deer" is sika deer. The word is phonetically spelled [ˈsiːkə], with the first syllable pronounced like the word "see" and the second like the word "kuh." This spelling is based on the Japanese pronunciation for the word shika, meaning "deer." Sika deer are native to Japan and other parts of Asia, as well as New Zealand and the United Kingdom where they have been introduced.
Japanese Deer refers to the various species of deer that can be found in Japan, primarily in forests and grasslands across the country. The term encompasses several types of deer, the most common being the Sika Deer (Cervus nippon), also known as the Nihon Jika. Additionally, the smaller and rarer species such as the Japanese Serow (Capricornis crispus) and the Japanese Musk Deer (Moschus berezovskii) may also be included under this classification.
Sika Deer, the most prominent among Japanese Deer, are characterized by their medium-sized build with a reddish-brown coat marked by white spots in summer. Males, known as stags, possess antlers that typically have six or more points, which they shed and regrow annually. These deer are known for their adaptability and can be found in a variety of habitats, ranging from mountains and plains to coastal areas. Japanese Serows, on the other hand, are goat-like deer distinguished by their shaggy brown or gray fur and twisted backward-curving horns. The elusive Japanese Musk Deer, with its stocky build and dark brown coat, is known for the musk gland present in males that secretes a strong scent.
Japanese Deer hold cultural significance in Japan and can often be observed in national parks, temples, and shrines. While admired for their beauty and grace, they can also cause damage to crops and forests if their population is not regulated. Their existence serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife in Japan's natural landscapes.
The term "Japanese Deer" refers to the native species of deer found in Japan, known as the sika deer or Cervus nippon. The word "Japanese" in this context simply implies that the deer species is found in Japan.
The etymology of the word "deer" can be traced back to the Old English word "deor", which originated from the Proto-Germanic word "deuzam". The word "deor" referred to any wild animal or quadruped, while "deuzam" was a general term for a beast or animal.
As for the word "Japanese", it comes from the English adjective "Japanese", which in turn came from the Portuguese word "japonês" or "giapones,” derived from the Chinese word "Rìběn" (日本).