Efforts to preserve rare Myanmar golden deer at Shwesettaw Wildlife Sanctuary

According to Shwesettaw Wildlife Sanctuary, efforts are being made to preserve the Myanmar golden deer, a rare species native to the area, from extinction.
Located in Minbu (Sagu) Township, Magway Region, Central Myanmar, Shwesettaw Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 213.4 square miles. It was established in 1940, and its purpose is to protect and conserve hardwood forests, as well as the Mone and Mann creeks watersheds, including the grazing areas of golden deer.
The conservation initiative for golden deer began in 2012 with the introduction of five male and seven female deer from Nay Pyi Taw Safari Park and Bagan Lawkananda Park. Currently, there are 19 male and 35 female deer, totalling 54. Members of the pagoda board of trustees carefully look after the deer.
“The star tortoises and golden deer are among the world’s most endangered species. Additionally, the Myanmar golden deer is unique to our country. Therefore, it is imperative to conserve them to prevent extinction and promote population growth. Visitors to well-known tourist areas in Minbu (Sagu), during the Shwesettaw pagoda festival and open season, can also observe the golden deer at Shwesettaw Wildlife Sanctuary,” stated U Thein Hlaing, vice-chair of the pagoda board of trustees. — Zeya Htet (Minbu)/TKO