With the Monsoon continues to play truant in the state, deer at ‘Jinke Vana’(deer park) at Namadachilume area in Devarayanadurga Reserve Forests seem to be at the receiving end.
The severe drought has left about 85 deer, including some fawns in the lurch. As they have been secluded in a small area of eight acres between the fence, it almost looks like a ‘concentration camp’ given their density.
Some of them have died over the years in a fight and a few have lost their horns as they constantly get into fights, sources said.
With dry ponds and empty grounds, they have been surviving on items, like food supplements supplied by the Forest Department. In fact, the authorities have been looking for private parties to adopt these animals.
Five years ago, when the government had a plan to shift the park to other place in Shimoga, it had to bow to the pressure of local groups. But off late, the management of the park proved shabby, said environmentalist Mahesh. “I am ready to adopt the deer given a change as we would lose the park,” he promised.
Range Forest Officer (RFO) Narasimhamurthy admitted to the poor management of the park over the years and claimed that the things have improved after he took charge a couple of weeks ago.
“We have been supplying required food in the form of green leaves along with vegetables and some supplements. A veterinarian had also paid a visit recently,” he informed.
He also revealed that he has been preparing a priority list to keep these animals in a good shape.
With regard to the adoption issue, he clarified that it has to be discussed with the wildlife warden which would be done shortly.
“The fencing is also not scientific and should be upgraded to save the deer from predators. We have also plans to expand the area,” he said.
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