The Rusa deer
Rusa deer in Mauritius: history, hunting and conservation
Brought to the island in the 17th century, the Rusa deer in Mauritius is now part of the island’s heritage and landscapes. It is also one of the most sought-after game species for hunters from around the world.
Discover its history, its role in Mauritian nature, and how we hunt it: with respect and within the law.
A story that began in 1639
How eight deer became tens of thousands.
Brought from Java
In 1639, the Dutch, led by Governor Adriaan van der Stel, brought the first Rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) from Java. Shortly afterwards, a cyclone destroyed their enclosures.
According to historical accounts, a handful of survivors, eight deer, escaped into the forests. The island’s entire wild population descends from them.
Around 70,000 deer today
With no natural predators, the Rusa deer adapted very well to the island’s climate. Today, the population is estimated at around 70,000.
They live in the hunting areas, forests and mountains of western, southern and eastern Mauritius.
Why hunting protects nature
In Mauritius, hunting is a real conservation tool.
An introduced species
The Rusa deer is considered an invasive species. In large numbers, deer damage endemic plants and the island’s native forests.
Fenced areas
By law, all hunting areas are fenced. This protects the native flora and prevents collisions between deer and cars on the roads.
Regulated hunting
Regulated hunting keeps the population in balance. It supports the hunting areas, which maintain and protect these natural spaces.
Rusa deer hunting
Hunt Rusa deer in Mauritius with Lionel
Since 2003, Lionel has guided hunters on foot, walk-and-stalk, as close as possible to the Rusa deer. The most spectacular moment: the rut in August, when stags roar and fight.
- Walk-and-stalk from June to mid-November
- The rut in August, the best month
- Trophies up to 34 inches included
- Larger stags: price on request
- A stag guided by Lionel ranked 2nd in the world (SCI)
A local, healthy and natural meat
Nothing goes to waste: Rusa venison feeds the island.
A local economy
The meat from hunted deer is used locally. It supplies hotels, restaurants and Mauritian families.
It comes from wild, free-range animals, with no hormones or antibiotics.
A lean meat
Like most game, venison is a very lean red meat, rich in protein, iron, zinc and B vitamins.
A good reason to try a venison dish during your stay in Mauritius.
Your questions about Rusa deer in Mauritius
Where do the Rusa deer of Mauritius come from?
From Java. The Dutch introduced them to Mauritius in 1639, and the entire wild population descends from eight deer that escaped their enclosures.
How many Rusa deer are there in Mauritius?
The population is estimated at around 70,000 deer, spread across the island’s hunting areas, forests and mountains.
Why are Rusa deer hunted in Mauritius?
They are an introduced species with no predators. Regulated hunting keeps the population in balance and protects endemic plants.
What trophy size can I expect?
Trophies up to 34 inches are included in our package. Larger stags are rarer: the price is on request and early booking is recommended.
When is the Rusa deer rut?
In August. It is the best month to hunt: stags are very active, roaring and fighting.
Hunt Rusa deer in Mauritius
Plan your hunting trip with Lionel and Vanessa. Please book at least two months in advance for your permit.
Contact us on WhatsApp