In a major wildlife conservation initiative, the Gujarat Forest Department has shifted 50 spotted deer from the Sasan Gir Wildlife Division to the Mandvi Forest Range in Surat district. The move is aimed at increasing the natural prey available for wild carnivores, improving biodiversity, and reducing incidents of human-wildlife conflict in South Gujarat.
According to an official release, the translocation is part of the state’s long-term conservation strategy to restore ecological balance while ensuring predators have enough food within forest areas.
Deer Released in Three Phases
The Forest Department carried out the translocation in three separate phases between May and June 2026.
The first group of 21 spotted deer was released on May 23, followed by 16 deer on June 18. The final batch of 13 deer was released on June 24, taking the total number of relocated animals to 50.
Officials said the phased release allowed the department to carefully manage the process and monitor the animals after they entered their new habitat.
Forest Department Prepared the Habitat Before Release
Before shifting the deer, forest officials conducted detailed surveys to identify locations that could safely support the animals.
Conservator of Forests (Surat Circle) Puneet Nayyar said the department carried out habitat assessments to ensure the selected area had suitable conditions for the deer to survive and thrive.
To ensure the animals have access to water throughout the year, the department has also developed 10 permanent water points across the release area. These water sources are expected to provide reliable drinking water during all seasons.
Continuous Monitoring Underway
The Gujarat Forest Department has launched an intensive monitoring programme to track the deer after their release.
Dedicated forest guards and trained trackers are regularly patrolling the area to observe the animals in the wild. In addition, camera traps have been installed at strategic locations to monitor the deer’s movement, health, habitat use, and survival.
Officials said this continuous monitoring will help assess how well the animals adapt to their new surroundings and guide future conservation efforts.
Strengthening the Natural Food Chain
The state government said increasing the population of herbivores such as spotted deer is an important step in maintaining a healthy forest ecosystem.
Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia said the Gujarat Forest Department is implementing science-based conservation measures to reduce human-wildlife conflict. He said strengthening the natural prey base is a key part of this strategy and that the translocation has been carried out under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
According to the minister, increasing herbivore populations in suitable forest landscapes will help restore ecological balance over the long term.
Reducing Human-Wildlife Conflict
Minister of State for Forest and Environment Pravin Mali said predators are less likely to move into villages or other human-populated areas if they have enough prey available inside forests.
He explained that a healthy prey population allows carnivores to meet their food requirements within their natural habitat, reducing the chances of them venturing outside forests in search of food. This can ultimately help lower incidents of human-wildlife conflict.
Part of Gujarat’s Long-Term Conservation Plan
The relocation of 50 spotted deer is one of several conservation measures being undertaken by the Gujarat Forest Department to improve wildlife habitats across the state.
By creating a stronger prey base, ensuring year-round water availability, and closely monitoring the released animals, the department hopes to build a healthier ecosystem while reducing conflicts between wildlife and nearby communities.
Officials believe the initiative will not only support biodiversity in South Gujarat but also contribute to the long-term conservation of the region’s forest ecosystems.
Also Read: Gujarat To Study Lion Behaviour Amid Fatal Attacks; 31 Lions Captured, 7 Declared ‘Maneaters’ https://www.vibesofindia.com/gujarat-to-study-lion-behaviour-after-rise-in-fatal-attacks/
