Philippine Deer / Binådu
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Philippine Deer / Binådu
Cervus mariannus
Introduced species; Regulated game species
Philippine deer or binadu in Chamoru, were brought to Guam by the Spanish about 200 years ago. Originally from the Philippines, this species of deer adapted well to the environment on Guam and eventually spread all over the island.
Male deer are called bucks or toru in Chamoru. They average about 125 pounds, but the largest ones can weigh as much as 300 pounds. Female deer or does, known as båka in Chamoru, are smaller and average about 80 pounds. The bucks grow pointed antlers that are used to fight other males and to get the attention of does. The antlers fall off at the end of the breeding season and the buck grows a new, larger set the following year. Does very rarely have antlers; those that do are called "spiked does". Does have one fawn or baby each year.
Binadu are mostly found in the forest where they eat a variety of bushes and grass. Does make a deep-throated barking sound, while bucks and fawns have a squeaky whining call. This animal is shy and sometimes easier to hear than see in the forest. Deer "sign", such as droppings (called pellets) and hoofprints, is more easily found.
Binadu are protected by law and may be hunted only by licensed hunters during the legal hunting season. Anyone 13 years or older is eligible for a hunting license, which can be purchased from the Department of Agriculture's Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources in Mangilao or at any authorized vendor. Guam has a 6-month deer-hunting season, running from October 1 to March 31. There is a bag limit of three either-sex deer/season per license holder exclusive of any special harvest.
People who hunt deer all year long using spotlights at night are known as "poachers." This is against the law and bad for the deer population. It also deprives legal hunters and those who enjoy watching deer of their legitimate recreation. Deer are generally less common in the central and southern areas of the island, but are more plentiful in northern forests, especially in areas where they are protected from poaching.
Guam Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy, 9/27/2005
