Fawn rescue at Visovac highlights need for responsible visitor behaviour

(Photo: Krka National Park

A touching example of the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats, ahead of World Animal Day, which is celebrated on 4 October, comes from Visovac Lake at Croatia’s Krka National Park.

Park staff and the Franciscan monks of Visovac found a freezing fawn, which had likely fled from a nearby forest, frightened by a dog.

Due to the negligence of a dog owner who had not kept their dog on a lead, the fawn became separated from its mother. However, thanks to the attention and care of the park staff, the fawn was rescued and returned to its natural environment.

This event underscores the importance of responsible visitor behaviour, particularly the rule that dogs must be kept on a lead within the park, a rule in place specifically to prevent such incidents, Krka National Park said.

Deer are usually spotted in the northern parts of the park, but as their population grows, they are increasingly seen further downstream, including the area where this fawn was found. This is encouraging, as it indicates they are adapting well to the region.

The role of park staff and conservationists in preserving the natural world and protecting endangered species is invaluable.

Visovac

Their daily presence on the ground helps identify and prevent threats to wildlife, maintaining the natural balance of ecosystems. This enables timely interventions, such as rescuing animals in distress, and also provides an opportunity to educate visitors about the importance of conservation and coexisting with wildlife.

Each life saved is a testament to the dedication of the park staff, the guardians of our environment.

Krka National Park has also developed a Wildlife Protection Programme to better manage the animal species in the park. This programme outlines the optimal management models for ungulate populations, as well as other species that live in the park permanently or periodically, with necessary monitoring of their presence.

The forests where animals like the rescued fawn have found a home are unique groves of holm oak, black ash, strawberry tree, tree heath, downy oak, and white hornbeam.

These forests, which provide refuge for various animal species, remind us of the delicate balance of nature, which we must preserve.