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Help Name a Rare Philippine Spotted Deer Fawn
20 Feb
Summary
- A critically endangered Philippine spotted deer fawn was born at Bristol Zoo.
- The fawn's birth is crucial for a species with fewer than 700 individuals left.
- The public is invited to vote on three Filipino-inspired names for the fawn.
A precious and rare Philippine spotted deer fawn has arrived at the Bristol Zoo Project, marking a special occasion for conservation efforts. This species is critically endangered, with less than 700 individuals surviving in the wild due to habitat loss and illegal hunting. The fawn's birth is particularly significant as it is part of an international breeding program dedicated to preserving the species.
The zoo is engaging the public by inviting them to help name the newborn fawn. Three distinct options are available for voting on the zoo's Facebook page: 'Buwan' (moon), 'Cebu' (an island in the Philippines), or 'Mabilis' (fast). The fawn, weighing 2.9kg and standing 30cm tall, is thriving under the care of its parents, Eugene and Pandora, and its older brother, Maliit.
This new arrival plays a vital role in the future survival of the Philippine spotted deer. Conservation initiatives in the Philippines, including efforts to reduce illegal hunting and protect forests on Panay and Negros Islands since 2014, underscore the importance of every individual born in conservation care. The zoo emphasizes that each birth contributes significantly to safeguarding the species.
