In the Chinese province of Jiangsu, the Dafeng Milu Nature Reserve is a symbol of resilience and conservation. This sanctuary saved the Père David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus), as it is home to the largest population of this species in the world, which was on the brink of extinction and now thrives thanks to a global effort of protection and recovery.
With over 8,200 individuals, Dafeng has become a successful model for the reintroduction of endangered species. The history of this deer is exceptional: in the 19th century, its wild population disappeared due to hunting and habitat loss. In 1900, the last remaining individuals in China, protected in the imperial hunting garden of Beijing, were exterminated during the Boxer Rebellion. Only 18 individuals survived in Europe, under the protection of the Duke of Bedford in England.
China, determined to restore its native fauna, started a reintroduction plan in 1985 with the support of the World Wildlife Fund. 39 Père David’s deer were brought from British zoos, and the Dafeng Nature Reserve was established in 1986, covering 78,000 hectares of coastal wetlands, the original habitat of the species.
The adaptation was not easy. The deer, raised in captivity, had to learn to survive in the wild. Additionally, the reserve lacked drinking water and electricity in its early days. However, with proper infrastructure and scientific monitoring, the population grew by 17% annually, becoming a conservation success story.
A model for global biodiversity
Dafeng not only rescued the Père David’s deer but also became a center for ecological education and tourism. More than one million visitors per year learn about the importance of protected areas and ecosystem restoration.
Furthermore, the success of the Père David’s deer inspired other projects, such as the protection of the Yancheng wetlands, part of the East Asia-Australasia Flyway. This region is crucial for species like the Siberian crane and the crested ibis, both endangered.
The story of the Père David’s deer is proof that conservation, with the support of science and international cooperation, can bring back life to species that the world thought were lost.
What sets the Père David’s deer apart from other deer?
The Père David’s deer, also known as the Milu deer, stands out from other deer due to its wide hooves, donkey-like tail, and branched antlers.
Characteristics of the Père David’s deer
- It is very fond of water.
- It can wade up to its shoulders and swim.
- It is very social.
- It lives in large groups, except before and after mating.
Characteristics of deer in general
- They are wild ruminant mammals.
- They have solid, branched antlers that they shed and regrow every year.
- They are slim, robust, well-formed, and have a majestic and haughty bearing.
- They have excellent vision at any time of day.
- Their eyes are impressive motion detectors.
- They have dichromatic vision and can distinguish between most colors.
The Père David’s deer is a unique animal documented in the 19th century by a French missionary.
Source: Clarín.
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