Rhodian fallow deer: Special characteristics, impact of wildfires, livestock grazing and poaching

Rhodian fallow deer is part of the natural asset and the historical and cultural heritage of the island of Rhodes as well. Great attention should be paid at this important animal and its study and protection should aim at conservation, development and increase of the existing population. The reason is that this species is not only a distinctly different species from the deer of the genus Cervus and of the subspecies Dama dama mesopotamica, but presents distinct differences in morphology and genetic structure even from the populations of the European fallow deer (Dama dama dama) as well. Its population in Rhodes follows a long term fluctuation concerning its size and spatial distribution. Although both parameters are heavily affected by wildfires and the intensity of livestock grazing in the island, however the effectiveness of protection and the elimination of poaching are more crucial factors for the conservation of the fallow deer population.