The Heartwarming Journey of Sika Deer at Lanthorn Farm
In an unexpected turn of events in 2019, our family found ourselves stepping into the role of caretakers for a group of Sika deer, an adventure that began with a call for help in the wake of animal cruelty allegations against a nearby zoo. Collaborating with Humane Society International (HSI), this endeavor became a pivotal chapter in our lives, deepening our connection with each other and our community, ultimately leading to the naming of our farm Lanthorn.
An Urgent Call to Action
The Sika deer were part of a larger rescue operation that included over 200 exotic animals. Without the urgent intervention of HSI and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), these animals faced seizure and potential euthanasia. Due to their status as exotic creatures bred in captivity, the Sika deer could not be released into the wild, even though they are considered endangered in their native habitats. With the closure of the zoo, a two-week countdown began to find suitable homes for these deer.
Finding a new home proved particularly challenging for the Sika deer. Unlike the more sought after big cats or apes, they required expansive spaces and attracted less interest from potential adopters. A desperate call for help was made on social media, tagging our family in the comments. It was then that HSI reached out, leading us to a swift decision regarding their fate. Fortunately, the Japanese millet we had planted as a cover crop turned out to be an ideal food source for the deer, making our farm a fitting sanctuary.
A Commitment to Care
Accepting the Sika deer meant making a long-term commitment to their care, which could span up to 20 years. We needed to consider the infrastructure required to maintain their habitat, feed them, pay licensing fees, cover veterinary bills, and forgo access to one-third of our farm fields. We pledged never to sell, breed, or profit from the deer, taking full responsibility for their well-being. Our motivation stemmed from a desire to honor the courageous actions of the whistleblower who alerted authorities to the cruel conditions at the zoo. Through this experience, we discovered the alarming prevalence of such situations at roadside zoos, emphasizing the need for more interventions to protect vulnerable animals.
Navigating New Challenges
Neither our family nor the HSI team had experience with a deer rescue of this magnitude, but our shared commitment fueled our efforts. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, which complicated the legal transfer of stewardship, we managed to adapt. HSI not only assisted us in setting up the refuge but also provided financial support to cover unexpected veterinary expenses and construction costs for barns, hay storage, and extensive fencing.
Transforming our farm into a sanctuary required considerable labor. We faced the daunting task of constructing 8-foot fences, a process that involved family members and volunteers working together on high ladders, using heavy gas-powered fence pounders to install posts. In total, we transformed 3.5 acres into a refuge, providing diverse habitats forests, fields, and shelters to meet the specific needs of our Sika residents.
Balancing Ecosystems and Learning
Despite their unexpected arrival, the Sika deer have adapted to their new home. With ongoing support from HSI, we have learned about their unique requirements and have made adjustments to ensure their comfort and well-being. Our commitment to sustainable farming practices continues, integrating crops and livestock while managing the challenges of caring for non domesticated animals. The deer cannot be easily rounded up for treatments or management, and the mating season adds another layer of complexity to their care.
Acknowledging Heroes
A special thanks must go to Andrew Plumbly from HSI, who played a crucial role in the rescue operation. His dedication and hands on approach helped navigate the challenges we faced, ensuring a smooth transition for the deer. Andrew’s versatility and commitment made him a true hero of our refuge.
Naming Our Farm and Finding Purpose
After accepting the deer, I stumbled upon a bronze statue of a stag with candleholder antlers while searching for a traditional anniversary gift. This discovery inspired the name of our farm Lanthorn, an archaic term for “lantern,” symbolizing light and hope. The Sika deer have come to embody our aspirations for our work and lives at Lanthorn.
Reflecting on this journey and observing the expanded territories where the deer now roam, we are continually reminded of the impact of collective action and compassion. With 11 deer currently residing in our refuge, we have grown fond of each individual, learning their unique personalities and quirks. Caring for them has transformed our family and our perspectives on animal welfare. The Sika deer belong here as much as we do, and we hope our efforts will raise awareness about the plight of animals still suffering in inadequate conditions at private zoos, inspiring others to take action.
- Mary and Bob
