The forestry forces have discovered the Golden Muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak vaginalis) and the Lao Muntjac (Muntiacus rooseveltorum) with approximately 5,300 individuals living and foraging in the forests of Pù Hu Nature Reserve in Thanh Hóa.
Previously, to conserve the genetic resources of flora and fauna characteristic of the mountainous region, the management board of the Pù Hu Nature Reserve implemented the project “Survey and Assess the Distribution and Conservation Status of Muntjac Species at Pù Hu Nature Reserve (2022-2024)” over a designated forest area and 54 villages in the buffer zone.
Golden Muntjac.
To date, forest rangers have identified the Golden Muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak vaginalis) and Lao Muntjac (Muntiacus rooseveltorum), with around 5,300 individuals residing and foraging in the Pù Hu forests.
The Golden Muntjac has a body length of 80-130 cm, a long tail, a black elongated snout that extends to the forehead forming a triangular tuft of black fur, and large lacrimal glands. The Lao Muntjac stands approximately 40 cm at the shoulder. Males have short antler bases (about 4 cm high) with small, unbranched horns measuring around 2 cm in length. Females exhibit prominent upper canines that protrude beyond the lips. Their fur ranges from dark brown to black, with a reddish-brown tuft on the forehead and a reddish color on the face and throat. A distinctive feature of the Lao Muntjac is the well-developed fur under the chin, which is longer, thicker, and stiffer compared to other Muntjac species.
Golden Muntjac in the forests of Pù Hu Nature Reserve.
Currently, the forestry rangers are investigating the status and distribution of Muntjac populations within the reserve and its buffer zone. They are also assessing ecological characteristics, dietary composition, habitat structure, and environmental threats, as well as the risk of population decline among Muntjac species, while also focusing on controlling hunting tools and methods used in the buffer zones of the reserve.
In addition, the rangers are developing conservation solutions and raising awareness within the community and local authorities about the importance of preserving Muntjac species.
Mr. Đỗ Ngọc Dương, Director of the Pù Hu Nature Reserve Management Board, stated that the recorded traces of Muntjac species are located far from residential areas and trails, currently found at altitudes of 400-800 m on steep slopes close to water sources. According to the plan, the unit will continue to investigate and determine the population size of Muntjac species and find preservation solutions for these precious animals…
