Following the denial of biological park status to V.O.C. Park by the Indian Government, a decision was made to relocate 26 spotted deers to Siruvani foothills' forest region in Coimbatore.
Coimbatore: In a significant step towards wildlife conservation in the city, 26 spotted deers housed at V.O.C. Park were successfully relocated to the forest area near Builder House, Siruvani foothills. This move was initiated by the Chief Forest Conservation Officer following the refusal to grant biological park status to V.O.C. Park, leading to a reevaluation of the wildlife management strategy at the park.
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department, aided by findings from the AIWC, Vandalur, which confirmed no tuberculosis infections in the fecal pellets of the deers, undertook the relocation process. As part of their adaptation, the diet for the deers was shifted from fodder to more natural vegetation available at the new location in March 2024.
The relocation involved meticulous planning, starting with the cessation of dense fodder and gradually introducing native plant species that the deers could forage in Siruvani. A mini lorry was specially equipped by Coimbatore Municipal Corporation to transport the deers in custom-built cages, ensuring their safety throughout the journey.
The deers, once released, were observed for their adaptation to the new environment, including dietary intake and water consumption. The Forest Department has set up a monitoring team to oversee the ongoing health and safety of the relocated animals, ensuring their successful integration into the wild habitat.
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department, aided by findings from the AIWC, Vandalur, which confirmed no tuberculosis infections in the fecal pellets of the deers, undertook the relocation process. As part of their adaptation, the diet for the deers was shifted from fodder to more natural vegetation available at the new location in March 2024.
The relocation involved meticulous planning, starting with the cessation of dense fodder and gradually introducing native plant species that the deers could forage in Siruvani. A mini lorry was specially equipped by Coimbatore Municipal Corporation to transport the deers in custom-built cages, ensuring their safety throughout the journey.
The deers, once released, were observed for their adaptation to the new environment, including dietary intake and water consumption. The Forest Department has set up a monitoring team to oversee the ongoing health and safety of the relocated animals, ensuring their successful integration into the wild habitat.