Black Deer Spotted in Kurseong Forest, Officials Say It is Likely A Genetic Mutation
A rare black-colored deer was photographed in Kurseong forest, likely caused by melanism, officials said.
A rare black deer was captured on camera in the dense forests of the Dowhill area within the Kurseong Range of West Bengal on January 7, 2026. The unusual sighting occurred during a routine patrol by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), who photographed the animal in its natural habitat. Forest officials described the event as highly uncommon for the region, noting that such dark-coated deer are seldom observed in these parts of the Darjeeling Hills.
The DFO explained that the black coloration is most likely the result of a genetic mutation rather than the presence of a separate species. This condition, known as melanism, involves excess dark pigmentation and is a hereditary trait caused by a recessive gene. For a deer to exhibit a fully black coat, the gene must be inherited from both parents, making such individuals exceptionally rare in wild populations.
Similar sightings have been recorded in isolated pockets of the Dowhill and Bagora forests in the past, underscoring the ecological diversity of the Darjeeling Hills. While India is home to a wide variety of deer species—including chital (spotted deer), sambar, hog deer, and several musk deer—fully melanistic individuals are not typical and are generally considered color variations within existing species, most commonly seen in barking deer (muntjacs) in certain forested areas.
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The discovery has generated interest among wildlife enthusiasts and researchers, who view it as a reminder of the hidden genetic diversity within India's rich biodiversity hotspots. Forest authorities continue to monitor the region to better understand the prevalence of such traits and ensure the protection of its unique wildlife. The rare photograph serves as a striking example of nature's occasional surprises, even in well-explored forest ranges.
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