Deer in Nara Park Go Wild? Tourists diminish in Corona... 5:11 on July 10th
A survey by Hokkaido University and others shows that deer in Nara Park are approaching the wild state, such as the number of tourists due to the new coronavirus is decreasing, the chances of being fed are decreasing, and we are searching for grass in the surrounding mountains. understood. The group says that eating grass well improves nutritional status, which may lead to increased births.
The survey was conducted by Hokkaido University and a group of the Nara deer protection group, a conservation group.
The group investigated what kind of changes are occurring in the behavior of "Nara deer," which is designated as a national natural monument, due to the decrease in tourists due to the new coronavirus.
Going to the mountains to find grass without getting food?
As a result, the number of deer in the center of Nara Park decreased by more than 30% last month compared to January before the number of tourists decreased. It seems that the chance of being fed by people has decreased and the time to search for the staple grass in the surrounding mountains has increased.
Firmly possible to "rub"
In addition, the number of deer resting on the lawn was about 20% in the January survey, but it increased to 60% in June. It is thought that this is because contact with tourists has decreased, and it is believed that the longer rest time will allow them to firmly "rub" the food once swallowed.
Assistant professor Shiro Tatezawa of Hokkaido University said, “The deer in Nara park is approaching the wild state due to a decrease in the number of tourists. By eating grass and rubbing it well, nutrition may be improved and more babies may be born. I want to pay close attention to the future impact.”