Surat: The Gujarat Forest Department has released 50 spotted deer into the Mandvi Forest Range of Surat district as part of a long-term wildlife conservation programme aimed at improving biodiversity, strengthening the natural prey base for carnivores and reducing human-wildlife conflict in South Gujarat.

The translocation was carried out under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, with the deer relocated from the Sasan Gir Wildlife Division in three phases between May and June.

Deer relocated in three phases under conservation plan

According to the Forest Department, 21 spotted deer were released on May 23, followed by 16 deer on June 18 and 13 deer on June 24.

The initiative is part of Gujarat’s broader wildlife management strategy focused on improving ecological balance by increasing herbivore populations in suitable forest habitats.

Officials said a healthy herbivore population provides a stable food source for predators, helping them remain inside forest areas instead of moving towards human settlements in search of prey.

Stronger prey base to help reduce human-animal conflict

Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said the deer translocation reflects the state’s science-based approach towards wildlife conservation.

He said improving the natural prey base is an important step towards reducing human-wildlife conflict and restoring ecological balance in forest regions.

Officials highlighted that maintaining sufficient prey availability within forests can reduce the movement of carnivores into villages and agricultural areas, thereby improving safety for both wildlife and local communities.

Habitat preparation, monitoring system put in place

Before releasing the deer, forest officials conducted detailed habitat assessments to identify suitable locations with adequate food and water resources.

The department has developed 10 permanent water points across the release area to ensure year-round water availability for the animals.

A dedicated Quick Response Team equipped with modern rescue tools has also been deployed to handle wildlife emergencies and protect both residents and animals.

Camera traps used to track deer movement and survival

The Forest Department has started a post-release monitoring programme to assess the adaptation and survival of the relocated deer.

Forest guards and trained trackers are conducting regular field surveys, while camera traps are being used to monitor the animals’ movement patterns, habitat use, health condition and survival rate.

Officials said the initiative will strengthen the ecological resilience of the Surat Forest Division by improving the prey base, supporting biodiversity conservation and creating a more balanced relationship between wildlife and nearby communities.

The project is expected to contribute towards long-term conservation efforts in South Gujarat while helping reduce instances of human-wildlife conflict.