One of the many great things about living in the Sierra foothills
is its diversity of wildlife. I am constantly amazed at the
quantity and variety of wildlife to be seen. I enjoy viewing the
creatures that inhabit this area so much that I decided to start a
series of caches to share some of my sightings with others.
The other day while cleaning out my garage and moving some of my
Christmas decorations I was fortunate enough to come across a
hibernating Yule Deer (see photo to left). The Yule Deer is a
member of the sub-species Tackius Holidayus Lawnium Ornamentum
Illuminatus. The Yule Deer is approximately 3 feet tall, 4 feet in
length, and generally light brown or whitish in color. Not to be
confused with the Mule deer common to the area, the Yule Deer
exhibits some unique habits and remarkable mating colorations.
Most of the year (approximately January through November), this
deer exhibits a very shy and reclusive nature and is seldom seen.
Scientific studies indicate that the Yule Deer goes into a
hibernation-like state during these months. For reasons that are
not completely understood, the Yule Deer prefers to make its
hibernation “nest” in residential garages, attics, and storage
units. Once comfortable in its nest it will generally remain
motionless for the entire hibernation period if not disturbed.
During the mating season (the month of December) the Yule Deer
emerges from hibernation. This usually shy and reclusive creature
becomes emboldened and takes to living in the open on residential
lawns and rooftops. It is also during this season the male exhibits
its flamboyant side with an impressive light show designed to
attract the female of the species. Scientists are still uncertain
of how the male Yule Deer generates the light show but it is
generally believed that little protrusions on their skin (approx. ¾
inch in length spaced evenly over their bodies), are stimulated by
hormones generated this time of year, which causes them to
illuminate.
Many of you
have probably seen the impressive spectacle of 5 or 6 of these
“lit-up” deer “displaying” in a residential yard trying to
attract a mate!
The generation of their illumination takes so much of the Yule
Deer’s energy that they are often unable to move while “displaying”
and will remain in the same position and location for weeks on
end.
But enough of the biology lesson! I managed to follow the Yule
Deer I surprised in my garage to his new nesting location. If you
follow the coordinates posted carefully you will have the rare
opportunity of seeing a Yule Deer in a rather unusual wilderness
location.
Do not try to move or startle this timid creature. If you are
cautious you may be able to get close enough to observe the skin
protrusions that produce his unique glow, and be able to pet him.
They particularly like to be petted on the back where there is a
loose “flap” of skin. Lift the skin carefully and be surprised by
what you observe!
I hope you enjoy this cache! And as always when dealing with
wild creatures be sure to attract as little attention as possible
while observing them, disturb them as little as possible, and leave
as little indication of your presence behind as possible.