50 Spotted Deer Released in Forests of Surat District

July 19, 2026
Gujarat South Gujarat State Government Video

Gandhinagar:The Gujarat Forest Department has translocated 50 spotted deer (Axis axis) from the Sasan Gir Wildlife Division to the Mandvi Forest Range in Surat district. The initiative is intended to strengthen the natural prey base for carnivores, enhance biodiversity, and support long-term ecological balance in South Gujarat.

The translocation was carried out in three phases between May and June this year. A total of 21 spotted deer were released on May 23, followed by 16 on June 18 and another 13 on June 24, taking the total number relocated to 50.

The translocation, carried out under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, is part of the state’s long-term efforts to restore ecological balance by increasing herbivore populations in suitable forest landscapes. A healthy prey base enables predators to meet their food requirements within forest habitats, reducing the likelihood of their movement into human-dominated areas in search of prey. This, in turn, can help lower the incidence of human-wildlife conflict.

The Forest Department has established a spotted deer breeding centre to augment local herbivore populations and a jungle fowl breeding centre to diversify the prey base while enriching avian biodiversity,” said Jaipal Singh , Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden.

To strengthen conflict response mechanisms, the department has also deployed a dedicated Quick Response Team (QRT) equipped with modern rescue equipment to respond promptly to wildlife emergencies and ensure the safety of both local communities and wild animals.

Before the translocation, forest officials carried out detailed habitat assessments to identify sites capable of sustaining the released animals. To ensure year-round water availability, the department developed 10 permanent water points across the release area, providing reliable drinking water for the deer.

The Forest Department has also established an intensive post-release monitoring programme. Dedicated forest guards and trained trackers are conducting continuous field monitoring, while strategically placed camera traps are being used to assess the deer’s movements, habitat use, health, and survival in the wild.
DeshGujarat

#Enviornment #Forest Department #Wildlife

Recent Stories