A settler in Felda Persu here chooses to raise Timorensis deer rather than spending his golden years lounging around.
Md Hussain Senik, 66, can now be proud of his effort, as his deer herd has grown from four to eight.
He said that the Gua Musang Veterinary Service Department (DVS) had helped him out by providing him with four parents in 2021.
“It didn’t take long for the four parents to breed, and now I have four fawns. Deer are also easy to take care of compared to other animals.
“All they need is a large space to move around and the animal does not get ill easily,” he said when met by reporters in Felda Perasu recently.
Md Hussain, who spends his mornings tending to his oil palm plantation, said that he raises deer in his backyard by putting up two-metre-high fencing.
“The cost of animal feed is not too high because I alternately feed the deer with bran. My son also helped me find grass and oil palm leaves for these animals to eat,” said Md Hussain, who also owns 40 heads of cattle.
According to Md Hussain, he would consider commercialising his hobby if there is demand because he believes that the business can be financially rewarding.
“The price of a male deer can reach up to RM3,500 per head, so if it’s in demand, I’d like to sell it,” he added.
Md Hussain also thanked the DVS for providing him with valuable guidance and advice, as well as making monthly visits to his place to monitor the deer’s health.
-- BERNAMA
Source: BERNAMA News Agency