Earlier this year, a young deer fawn was brought to the Wildlife Hospital after being found injured in DeSoto County. At first glance, she looked like a white-tailed deer, Florida’s native deer species. However, the finder mentioned seeing axis deer on the property, which prompted us to take a closer look.
After consulting with experts familiar with the species, we confirmed that the fawn was actually an Axis deer (Axis axis), a species native to India and parts of Southeast Asia. Her rich reddish coat, bright white spots arranged in neat rows, and the dark stripe running down her back helped distinguish her from a white-tailed deer.
The fawn had suffered a hip luxation (dislocation) and underwent surgery at Choice Veterinary Services. As she recovered, her case became a good example of why wildlife rehabilitators need to know whether an animal is native, nonnative, invasive, or domestic.
Nonnative species are animals that have been introduced outside their natural range through human activities, either intentionally or accidentally.
Axis deer fall into this category. Although small feral populations exist in parts of Florida, they are not native to the state. Before we could continue treatment, we contacted the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which confirmed the presence of feral axis deer in DeSoto County and authorized continued care.
Cases involving nonnative wildlife often require additional permits, coordination, and consideration when determining long-term placement options.
Invasive species are nonnative species that cause harm to native wildlife, habitats, human health, or the economy.
Examples in Florida include:
- Burmese pythons
- Feral hogs
- Cane toads
- Lionfish
These species can outcompete native wildlife, spread disease, alter habitats, and disrupt natural ecosystems.
Put simply: all invasive species are nonnative, but not all nonnative species are invasive.
As a wildlife rehabilitation facility, PRWC follows state regulations and our own Invasive Species Policy when determining how nonnative and invasive species are handled.
For wildlife rehabilitators, these classifications affect everything from medical treatment decisions to release and placement options.
In the case of our Axis deer, identifying her correctly meant working with FWC to determine the appropriate path forward. Because she is a nonnative species, release was not an option.
Once she had recovered sufficiently from surgery, she was transferred to OtterSpace Wildlife in Hilliard, Florida, where she can continue to receive specialized care and life-long placement.
Every animal that comes through our doors presents unique challenges. Understanding the differences between native, nonnative, invasive, and domestic animals helps us provide the best possible care while protecting Florida’s wildlife and ecosystems.
