Critically Endangered Persian Fallow Deer: Conservation Challenges And Opportunities
The Persian Fallow Deer (Dama mesopotamica), a subspecies of the European Fallow Deer, is a critically endangered large mammal. It’s characterized by its compact, reddish-brown body, palmate antlers, and distinct white spots on its coat. Found in isolated pockets of southwestern Iran, its once-vast habitat has been fragmented and degraded. Habitat loss, hunting, and disease outbreaks pose significant threats to its survival. Conservation efforts focus on captive breeding programs, habitat protection, and law enforcement to safeguard this unique species and its fragile ecosystem.
