In the East Dongting Lake Nature Reserve in Hunan Province, central China, a dramatic season of romance and rivalry unfolds. Endangered milu deer, also known as Pere David's deer, have entered their breeding season, setting the stage for a wild showdown.
The reigning stag—a six to seven-year-old with branches and weeds artfully attached to his antlers—has earned his title as the "king of the deer." Not willing to back down, a challenger just one to two years his junior charged into battle, clashing antlers in a contest that left the younger contender injured, while the experienced king maintained his supremacy.
Adding a modern twist, the victorious stag sports a collar fitted with a BeiDou Satellite positioning device. This tech-savvy accessory not only helps researchers track his movements but also underscores a remarkable success: deer once reared in captivity are now thriving in the wild.
The story of the milu deer is a testament to survival and rewilding efforts. Once driven to domestic extinction during the Qing Dynasty due to climate shifts and poaching, these majestic creatures were reintroduced from overseas in 1985. Through robust conservation projects, their numbers have soared to over 14,000 across 92 habitats by the end of 2024—with the Dongting Lake reserve standing out as a conservation marvel.
This natural drama captivates not only wildlife enthusiasts but also inspires those passionate about conservation. Stay tuned for more wild and inspiring stories that connect cultures and remind us of nature's enduring resilience! 😮🌿
Reference(s):
Endangered milu deer fight for mating rights in Dongting Lake reserve
cgtn.com
