In the vast landscapes of Saihan Wula National Nature Reserve in Inner Mongolia, wild Manchurian wapiti are putting on a dramatic display. Recent infrared camera footage has captured the intense bellowing and fierce battles between male wapiti as they vie for territory and mates.
The Manchurian wapiti, a protected species native to East Asia, is currently under second-class state protection in China. The infrared cameras have been instrumental in documenting the behavior of these majestic animals, especially during the peak mating season in September and October.
\"The bellowing of deer peaks in September and October, primarily as males attempt to attract females,\" says Hong Meijing, head of the scientific monitoring section at the reserve. The footage features adult males bellowing loudly and engaging in confrontations to establish dominance.
To bolster conservation efforts, researchers at the reserve have installed 59 infrared cameras and are utilizing technologies like GPS collars and DNA analysis. These tools help track the wapiti population and understand their behavior, providing crucial data for developing effective protection strategies.
Thanks to these dedicated conservation measures, the population of Manchurian wapiti across seven reserves in the region has increased to approximately 12,000, according to the Chifeng Wild Plant and Animal Protection Association.
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Infrared cameras capture wild deer battling for territory and mates
cgtn.com
