The number of Red Book deer has decreased in Pomorie due to poaching

Experts from the World Wildlife Fund have summed up the results of the wild reindeer census in the Shilovsky reserve, located in the Krasnoborsky district of the Arkhangelsk region.

The use of camera traps and satellite collars made it possible to obtain more accurate data on the number, habitats and migration routes of deer. Analysis of the photographs made it possible to determine the age, sex and condition of the animals.

Last autumn, six reindeer from the Krasnobor population were tagged with satellite collars for the first time. Such a monitoring system made it possible to obtain a huge amount of data on animal movements and preferred habitats in a short time. Accurate location information can be used to justify the need to conserve deer habitats. In addition, it allows you to take into account the location of the reindeer during migration or calving when planning harvesting.

The monitoring results showed that the number of the Krasnobor group of deer has significantly decreased over the past two years and is no more than 150 individuals. The experts also found an unusually low proportion of adult males in the herds. Their numbers have halved. According to scientists, the reason for this may be the selective shooting of the largest animals by poachers.

The high number of wolves in recent years has also affected the condition of the herds, which is the cause of the death of the offspring.

According to the records, at present, females predominate in the Krasnobor group. Large mature males make up less than 10% of the total number, which does not correspond to the structure of a healthy population and threatens its survival.

Scientists have found that deer spend almost the entire winter period within the boundaries of the reserve. In addition, they now know the main routes and timing of spring migration.

Experts agreed that in order to preserve the species on the territory of the reserve, it is necessary to strengthen control over the implementation of hunting, as well as take measures to preserve key areas for deer outside the reserve.