Since September 1968 an investigation of the history and status of an exotic population of white fallow deer (Dama dama) has been conducted in the North Coast Range in central Mendocino County. Preliminary findings indicate that 200 to 400 fallow deer range primarily on the grassland and oak woodland habitats within an approximately 80 square mile area around the point of release on the Ridgewood Ranch. With a few possible exceptions, all the deer are now found within seven miles of the release point. Since the introduction in 1949, sightings of white fallow deer have been reported as far away as 45 miles to the north and 20 miles to the south. The distribution today appears to be limited primarily by the surrounding coniferous forests, chaparral, and cultivated and urban valleys. Uncontrolled hunting is probably an important factor in limiting numbers and in preventing spread into new areas. Real Estate developments in this area probably will greatly influence the status of this population in the future.
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