The Texas Hill Country is home to a unique mix of native and non-native species. The history of the area includes portions of land that were high-fenced for decades to manage large game and introduce exotic species. Since the 1950s, when ranchers first introduced exotics as a source of revenue and a draw for hunters, these animals have found their niche. Today, there are 51 exotic species in Texas, and many have established thriving, free-roaming populations that make a drive through the Ranch feel like a global safari.

The Most Common Free-Roaming Exotics

In and around Cordillera Ranch, you are most likely to encounter these distinct species from across the globe:

• Axis Deer: Native to India, these are the most recognizable exotics with their bright orange coats and permanent white spots. They are larger and more vocal than our native whitetail, and arguably the most desirable wild game for the grill.
• Blackbuck Antelope: These “speed demons” from India and Nepal feature striking jet-black and white coats on mature males, topped with long, spiraling horns.
• Fallow Deer: Hailing from Europe and Asia Minor, they are famous for their unique, palmated (moose-like) antlers and coats that range from white to chocolate brown.
• Aoudad (Barbary Sheep): These rugged, sand-colored climbers from North Africa frequent the steeper, rocky ledges and elevated terrains of the Ranch.
• Sika Deer: These Asian deer are smaller and more reclusive, known for their sharp, whistling alarm calls.

Connecting with the wilderness brings a sense of harmony to our lives. As Sylvia Dolson wrote in Joy of Bears, “Embracing this state of connectedness… brings a sense of harmony and enables us to be at peace.”

Technology has made this connection easier than ever. Through the Cordillera Ranch Wildlife Management Plan (WMP), a network of cellular and Wi-Fi trail cameras monitors the Ranch in real time. This system allows us to observe not only the exotics but also our native residents: whitetail deer, grey fox, bobcat, turkey and the elusive mountain lion — a stealthy animal I’ve only spotted a few times near the west end of the Ranch by the Gun Club and Spring Creek.

To catch a glimpse of these magnificent animals, keep these tips in mind:

• The Golden Hours: Dawn and dusk are the best times for viewing as animals move from the thick brush to open clearings to graze.
• Focus on the West End: Sightings are particularly frequent near Spring Creek where the terrain is more rugged.
• Practice Stewardship: While exotics are beautiful, they compete with native wildlife for resources. Healthy populations of both native and non-native species are the hallmark of a functioning ecosystem and responsible land stewardship.

Share Your Sightings

I am always looking for high-resolution photos of our native and non-native neighbors. If you capture a great shot on the Ranch, please email it to me. We would be happy to publish it in Cordillera Ranch Living and give you full credit for the find.