The population of milu deer, commonly known as Pere David's deer, has multiplied in Daqing Mountain National Nature Reserve in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, thanks to scientific conservation efforts.
Once believed extinct in the early 20th century due to habitat destruction and environmental changes, milu is a rare species under national first-class protection, unique to China.
In September 2021, 27 milu deer - 9 males and 18 females - were relocated from Beijing and east China's Jiangsu Province to Daqing Mountain National Nature Reserve for enhanced protection.
Today, the herd has grown to 64, including 12 born in April this year.
Daqing Mountain National Nature Reserve, one of the northernmost, coldest and highest-altitude milu habitats in China, presents a stark contrast to the deer's original habitats in Beijing and Jiangsu. As a result, the herd needed time to adapt to the region's special conditions.
The area where the milu deer live covers about 10,000 mu (about 666 hectares) of grasslands, forests, and streams at an average altitude of 1,100 meters. This diverse environment, particularly the warm, humid wetlands and lakes, has become a key gathering spot for the animals.
To monitor the herd's movements and behavior, researchers have equipped the deer with digital collars powered by the BeiDou satellite navigation system, which allow for tracking without interfering with their natural activities.
The collected data shows that the deer's range is steadily expanding, indicating growing familiarity with their new home.
Researchers also collect and analyze fresh droppings on a regular basis to study the deer's diet, check for parasites, and perform DNA tests to monitor the herd's genetic diversity.
These scientific efforts have been instrumental in supporting the herd's population growth, ensuring the long-term survival of milu in the reserve.
Milu deer thrive in north China's nature reserve with population multiplying
