The Deer of St. John

Photo by Gene Pollard

White Tail Deer were first brought to the Virgin Islands from the United States in 1792, with subsequent introductions from Texas and Georgia. They have adapted very well to the ecological conditions in the Virgin Islands, swimming between the islands, they seem to do well in all habitats from very wet to very dry. The Does weigh about 80 pounds and Bucks average about a 100. Births take place almost any month of the year. Bucks usually shed their antlers in late fall and begin the new growth soon after.

Photo by Gene Pollard

Photo by Gene Pollard

Photo by Gene Pollard

Photo by Gene Pollard

photo by Gayle Gosselin

The national flower of the USVI is the Tecoma Stans, also known as the Ginger Thomas. It is abundant in the US Virgin Islands and is also found in Texas, New Mexico and Florida.