Ep144 - Indigenous perspectives on conserving the Philippine Brown Deer

<p>In this episode, we talk with Mr. Jhonnel Villegas about his study examining the conservation of the Philippine brown deer (Rusa marianna Desmarest, 1822) in Davao Oriental with a focus on the perspectives and traditions of the Mandaya Indigenous people. The deer, considered sacred and a cultural symbol, faces declining populations due to poverty-driven hunting and deforestation. Through interviews and observations, the study finds that the Mandaya’s beliefs, traditional practices, and knowledge influence conservation efforts. Collaborative communication, culturally sensitive and future-oriented conservation strategies, and Indigenous-managed protected landscapes are recommended to balance cultural traditions and wildlife protection. Involving Indigenous peoples is crucial for effective and sustainable deer conservation in the Philippines.</p><p><br></p><p>📚Reference: Villegas JP, Pua LR, Vidláková A, Ceacero F. 2025. <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/15/23/3397" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Human–wildlife interactions: cultural sensitivities and perspectives influence the conservation of the Philippine brown deer (Rusa marianna Desmarest, 1822)</a>. Animals. 15(23):3397.</p>