The Rusa Deer and the Wild Boar
The Rusa Deer
The Rusa Deer, or Java Deer present in Mauritius is an indigenous species, introduced by the Dutch in the 17th century.
Local breeding contributes to the longevity of the breed by controlling reproduction through thoughtful and careful hunting which ensures the good balance of the herd.
The Java Deer is a very difficult cervid to approach.
In addition, its unparalleled camouflage ability, sharp eyesight, highly developed sense of smell and perfect hearing make it a trophy of choice!
The Rusa Deer hunt is done both in driven hunt and approach with a rifle. For bow hunting, you have the choice between hides or approach. In both cases, you will be guided and advised by Jean-Francois who will accompany you throughout your hunting adventure.
Hunting season
Deer hunting is practiced from the 1st of June to the 30th of September. Walk and Stalk hunting period will be May 15 to December 15, depending on the trophy sought. Deer will begin to shed their antlers from mid-October to achieve complete regrowth around mid-May.
Deer is a game greatly appreciated by the Mauritian population because its flesh is not fatty, and it can be eaten by all religions present on the island.
The Wild Boar
As strong and robust as a European Boa or American Feral Hog, the Mauritian Wild Boar is a subspecies resulting from a cross between domestic pigs that have become wild and wild boars. They have tusks.
The Dutch introduced wild boars to Mauritius in 1606 but only nine specimens remained on arrival. In 1709, they had spread so much that they had become real nuisances and hunting had to be allowed to restrict their number but also to reduce the damage they can cause.
The Wild Boar is present in the forests of Mauritius as well as in the sugar cane fields which serve as their lodging and pantry.
There is no limited hunting period for the Wild Boar in Mauritius. In the Hunting Reserves, during the Rusa Deer Hunting period, they come out of the forests and tall grass pushed by deer beaters and are prized hunting prey for hunters.
The Wild Boar is a very popular game and is cooked in many ways.
Mauritian gastronomy
Mauritian cuisine is a discovery in itself. You will appreciate typical dishes such as Deer Vindaye or Wild Boar roast, served in a majestic place.
