Ensuring the reproduction of gazelles, whose numbers are decreasing in Türkiye and whose habitats are confined to a narrow region, in new habitats

Abstract

The aim of this study was to resettle Gazella Marica, whose habitats are declining in Türkiye, to the foothills of Cudi Mountain, which is connected to the Silopi District of Şırnak Province, which was previously located within the natural habitat zone. The gazelles obtained from the 75th Year Gazelle Production Station were placed in individual crates of 100x36x90 cm made of plywood, with 51 numbers (24 females, 27 males) gazelles in 2020 and 40 numbers (19 females and 21 males) in 2021. Mass releases were made with a ceremony in an area with similar climatic characteristics, which is approximately 380 km away. 1 gazelle died in 2020, 6 gazelles died in 2021. During the post-release monitoring activities, the first reproduction records of gazelles released in 2020 were successfully recorded in 2021 and 23 new individuals were obtained. The current number of individuals reached 106. It has been observed that gazelles have adapted to the area in the 2 years. Illegal hunting is prevented as the region is within the borders of military security. Monitoring studies continue for the long-term management plan.