Facing threat globally, mouse deer population up 80-fold in Telangana

HYDERABAD: Even as the species teeter on the verge of extinction globally, the mouse deer, one of the tiniest members of the ungulate family, has experienced an almost 80-fold population increase in Telangana.

In the state, conservation efforts began with just six mouse deer, and their numbers have grown to 500 in the past 14 years through a meticulous breeding programme. In 2010, a collaborative effort between Nehru Zoological Park and the Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) at CSIR-CCMB was launched to protect and revive the population of mouse deer.

This incredible resurgence in Telangana stands in stark contrast to the dire situation faced by mouse deer populations across the globe, where the species is facing an imminent threat of being wiped out. Also known as chevrotain, the mouse deer, has been listed in Schedule I as endangered in the Wildlife Protection Act (1972). They are frequently hunt down for bushmeat.

The project, backed by the central zoo authority, aimed to boost the numbers of these tiny creatures in captivity and eventually release them back into their natural habitats. As a result, their population has increased exponentially, and over 200 were released into Amrabad Tiger Reserve, Kinneresani Wildlife Sanctuary, Kawal Tiger Reserve, Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary, Mrugavani National Park, and Tejovanam Urban Park.

The mouse deer play a major role in the forest ecosystem as seed dispersers.

Elusing Meru, principal chief conservator of forests, said that as part of the project proper care is taken to ensure the well-being and genetic diversity of mouse deer. Factors such as parentage, health, and animal behaviour are carefully considered and managed to prevent inbreeding. This allows the mouse deer to thrive and reach their full lifespan potential of 12 years. The breeding of mouse deer is conducted in a scientific manner, adhering to strict guidelines and best practices, he said.

"These mouse deer bred in Telangana have been shared with other states as part of an animal exchange programme, contributing to the nationwide conservation efforts for this endangered species," Meru added.

According to officials of Nehru Zoological Park, the mouse deer receive special attention in various aspects of their care, including habitat management, nutrition, and breeding. When the mating period arrives, a single male mouse deer is placed with two females. The diet provided to these animals consists of a variety of plant-based food items such as fruits, seeds, flowers, leaves, and grass. The enclosure for the mouse deer is carefully designed and maintained to ensure their well-being.


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