Weight Estimation for Axis, Fallow, Sika and White-Tailed Deer in Texas‪.‬

Abstract. -- Predictive equations provide wildlife managers and sportsmen with a practical and reliable estimate of deer weight. These equations have not been reported for axis (Axis axis), fallow (Dama dama), sika (Cervus nippon), or white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Texas. To address this need, the relationships between heart girth, live weight, dressed weight, and carcass weight were assessed for these cervid species in central Texas. Separate predictive equations were required for each species, age class, and season. General models using heart girth to provide an estimate of weight had [R.sup.2] values of 0.76, 0.75, and 0.75 for live weight, dressed weight, and carcass weight, respectively. General models using dressed weight to predict live weight and using live weight to predict carcass weight had [R.sup.2] values of 0.89 and 0.83, respectively. **********