Iran’s Endangered golden deer looks set to increase as another member of the deer family has recently been spotted in the country. The sighting of the baby yellow deer was first reported on IRNA, the Islamic Republic News Agency. It is estimated to be three months old, indicating that it was born during the natural breeding season from February to March.
The Golden deer is listed as an endangered species on the International Union Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List. The exact number of golden deer left in Iran is difficult to determine as they are elusive animals and live in remote and inaccessible areas. However, according to estimates from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), there are believed to be fewer than 500 golden deer remaining in Iran. This makes them a critically endangered species in the country.
The Department of Environment’s (DOE) efforts to protect their habitat, combat poaching, and raise awareness about their conservation status in order to ensure their survival and increase their population have resulted in fruitful results. Several factors have contributed to the endangerment of these species including loss of its natural habitat due to human activities such as deforestation, urbanisation, and agriculture. The rare species thrives on mountainous forests found in the northern and western regions of Iran.
Poaching is another problem that’s threatening the existence of the Persian fallow deer. Its beautiful golden fur is reportedly highly valued in the illegal wildlife trade.The changing climate and extreme weather events have had a negative impact on the golden deer’s habitat and food sources, making it harder for them to survive and reproduce. The new golden deer member was captured by trap cameras, placed by the Department of Environment to monitor the species’ progress.
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The golden deer are highly adapted to living in rugged and rocky terrains, where they can find shelter and escape from predators. They are often found at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,500 metres above sea level. The Caspian Hyrcanian mixed forests in northern Iran and the Zagros Mountains in western Iran are considered to be the primary habitats for the golden deer. Eco-tourism experts say the preservation of this rare species can be beneficial for eco-tourism. Golden deer are charismatic and attract tourists and visitors to protected areas where they reside.
Ecotourism, when managed sustainably, can provide economic benefits to local communities, and incentivise conservation efforts. The Persian fallow may be of conservationists’ interest, as they are not a separate species but rather a colour variation within existing deer species. NatureScot’s (NatureScot) Biodiversity Duty Report 2018-2020 notes that the Persian fallow is a keystone species, which means it plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and diversity of its ecosystem. They contribute to the overall biodiversity of their habitat and help sustain other plant and animal species.
The feeding habits of golden deer influence the vegetation structure and composition in their habitat. By selectively grazing on certain plants, they can shape the landscape and create suitable conditions for other plant species to thrive. Yellow deer were considered to be extinct worldwide over fifty years ago. According to local media sources, four yellow deer were spotted in the woodlands of Dez and Karkheh some 50 years ago.
The number of yellow deer in the region has climbed by 30% year on year to 118, including deer that were captured alive and moved to neighbouring provinces. 95 have been identified, according to media sources.
This year’s growth of this precious species is expected to climb by 30%, suggesting that all biological prerequisites have been met. Approximately 25 new deer will join the existing population. Wildlife experts say the focus should be on conservation efforts to preserve the population of the species rather than valuing their fur.
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