Reduction of red deer in the National Park of Parnithahas mobilized both the Parnitha link (plus PA) as well as the Municipality of Acharnon. The data gathered and the study that has been prepared confirm that its population is now at marginal levels.

According to figures submitted by SYN PA, the counting of WWF in 2009 had recorded about 700 deer, while in 2014 Opipka recorded 1,110 deer in the spring season and at some point there were indications that all 1,300 were reached. The decline then began and the last record showed that the number has fallen to 49 red deer, that is, it is a collapse of their population.

“The red deer, inextricably linked to Parnitha and the Municipality of Acharnes, is a living symbol of the natural heritage of our country and its ecological balance”Mayor Spyros Brettos tells RES-EIA and continues:

“Unfortunately, data arising from competent services confirm that the population of this flagship of fauna is at marginal levels and that we have now entered into a phase of total extinction. Maintaining and protecting red deer is our priority and responsibility for all of us. That is why we call on the State and any competent body to proceed immediately and without any delay in taking all the necessary measures to rescue the species. Our responsibility to nature and future generations requires us to act here and now. “

The Municipality of Acharnes proposes a crucial solution to the survival of the species and the reinforcement of the population, the reopening of the shelter, which had been interrupted by the 2007 fire in Parnitha. Indeed, during a visit to Acharnes of the Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavrou, on the day of World Environment Day (5/6), this issue was raised by the Municipal Authority.

“After a thorough discussion on the issue of Parnitha’s red deer, the minister committed to the creation of a shelter to face the threat of their disappearance and to be able to increase the population on our mountain.”said Mr. Brettos and added: “Nature is our home and protecting flora and fauna is not just our obligation, there is a need for our future vital, for the future of our children.”

On his own side, The President of the Parnitha Association Vassilis Lazarouhe tells RES-EIA about the appeal made and the announcement issued: “Our goal is to make it clear that the situation in the Park is now critical. We want to express our concern in an ecological crisis in an institutional way, evolving in front of our eyes. The population of red deer is reduced at rhythms that leave no room for dispute. The picture we have is not based on reports or publications, but on direct knowledge of the field. Our employees collect data in the field. We are finding less and less traces, less and fewer deer observations, in areas that were traditional habitat of the species. “

But where is this population decline? Mr Lazarou replies: “In the rapid growth of the wolf population, which reappeared in Parnitha in 2009. Then a wolf was found by a farmer in the Municipality of Fyli, this was the first testimony of his appearance. This type, although protected, has expanded its activity and due to lack of other prey, it turns to the deer. His presence has even been recorded in residential areas. This is not just a theoretical analysis, it is a daily finding, confirmed by videos, complaints of residents and our own patrols. “

The relevant study of the BIOPHRA, cited by SYN PA, includes the area of ​​Parnitha National Park and surrounding natural formations, a total of 341 sq. Km. For its preparation, sampling and wolf traces, surveillance cameras were used as a method and wolf analysis of the wolf. Specifically with regard to the results of his diet, it emerged that 68.62% involved deer, 21.62% wild boars, 7.63% goats, 1.35% roe deer, 0.57% Petrokunavos and 0.21% for herbal material.

So what does the link propose? His president tells us: “First, the reopening of the red deer refuge in Parnitha to protect them. Second, the creation of zones of exclusion and secure areas for the reproduction of the species. Thirdly, scientific monitoring of wolves and their effects on other species. And finally, the training of the public for proper coexistence with the wild fauna. “

Recently, there has been a prosecutor’s order to remove wolves from the National Park of Parnitha as a measure of protection of red deer, but there are reactions from part of the scientific community as it speaks of disturbing the biodiversity of the region and balances in nature.

Mr. Lazarou stresses: “The recent prosecutor for wolf management is a first indication of reaction. But it is not enough. We need a comprehensive, scientifically documented wolf population management plan, including GPS monitoring, control of their action zones and prevention of human activities. “

And in support of other bodies, he adds: “The Municipality of Acharnes is our firm ally. We have begun contacts with scientific institutions and we are trying to mobilize all those involved, from the region to environmental organizations, to join around a single strategy. “

SYN president then points out: “The loss of red deer is not just the loss of an animal. It is a loss of a symbol, a critical link of nature. And it’s up to us to save it, not tomorrow, today. The situation has exceeded the stage of prevention and we are now in the process of immediate rescue. If decisions are not made now, we are in danger of losing a kind that has been an integral part of Parnitha for decades. “

And ends: “If the red deer disappears, nature will not be to blame. We will be to blame, because we knew and did not react. The protection of Parnitha is our debt, ecological, moral and cultural. “