Ep144 - Indigenous perspectives on conserving the Philippine Brown Deer

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.

📚Reference: Villegas JP, Pua LR, Vidláková A, Ceacero F. 2025. Human–wildlife interactions: cultural sensitivities and perspectives influence the conservation of the Philippine brown deer (Rusa marianna Desmarest, 1822). Animals. 15(23):3397.