Sika deer (Cervus nippon), a native of East Asia, have become an iconic yet mysterious part of the Delmarva Peninsula’s wildlife. In this talk, University of Delaware researchers Rebekah Manti and Andrew Slear will explore the natural history of these fascinating animals: their range, diet, reproduction, behavior, and the questions scientists are still working to answer. The presentation will also trace the history of how sika deer came to be established on the Delmarva and examine their cultural significance both in their native range and here in the U.S.
Rebekah and Andrew will share insights from their ongoing research on sika reproductive ecology and calf survival, explaining not only what they’ve learned so far but also why this work is important for wildlife management and conservation.
Rebekah Manti (Agnew) is the lead technician for the University of Delaware’s sika deer reproductive ecology study. Growing up in the northern suburbs of Chicago, her research interest began as a curiosity in veterinary medicine. Manti explored the world of vet med during her time at Michigan State University and discovered wildlife research along the way. As an undergraduate, she assisted a graduate study focusing on chronic wasting disease and the impact of trail use on wildlife populations. She was then offered an undergraduate research project that solidified her passion for studying ungulates. Following graduation in 2023, Manti worked for the state of Idaho as a chronic wasting disease technician, then moved to Maryland at the start of 2024 to be a sika deer technician. Manti returned as the lead technician for the 2025 capture and calving seasons and couldn’t be more excited to share all she’s learned! Following the 2025 season, Manti will continue pursuing her goal of working in academia, mentoring future biologists and conducting meaningful research.
Andrew Slear is currently pursuing his graduate research at the University of Delaware, focusing on the reproductive ecology and calf survival of sika deer, a project he has been involved with since early 2024. A lifelong outdoorsman, Andrew developed a deep passion for wildlife and conservation through his experiences as an avid hunter and trapper in Appalachia. From a young age, he knew he wanted to build a career in wildlife studies, with a particular interest in large mammals. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Juniata College in 2021 and has since worked on a variety of wildlife research projects across the country. His hands-on experience includes studying pronghorn antelope, mountain lion, black bear, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, elk, and, most recently, sika deer. After completing his graduate degree, Andrew plans to return to interior Alaska with his family to pursue a career in game species management with a focus on ungulate conservation.
Location
Online via Zoom
