Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the historical evolution and conservation efforts of the milu deer in China, highlighting its journey from abundance to extinction and subsequent reintroduction and population recovery. Group 1: Historical Background - The milu deer originated approximately 2 to 3 million years ago and was widely distributed in the warm and humid regions of the Yellow River and Yangtze River basins [1][2] - The milu deer thrived during the Neolithic to Shang and Zhou dynasties, but faced population decline due to climate changes and human activities post-Shang and Zhou periods [4] - By the Ming and Qing dynasties, the population dwindled to a few hundred, primarily in the Royal Hunting Grounds of Nanhaizi, Beijing [4] Group 2: Extinction and Rediscovery - The milu deer became extinct in China due to various factors, including flooding and human hunting, with the last known population disappearing around 1900 [4][6] - Despite extinction in China, milu deer survived in other parts of the world, with some being captured and kept in zoos [6][8] - The reintroduction of milu deer to China began in 1985, with 20 deer gifted from the UK, marking the start of a significant conservation effort [10][12] Group 3: Conservation Efforts and Achievements - Since the reintroduction, the milu deer population has grown from zero in 1985 to an estimated 14,000 by the end of 2024, with 92 habitats established [9][16] - The conservation strategy includes a "three-step" approach: population recovery, establishment of new populations in suitable areas, and gradual rewilding [14][16] - As of now, over 5,000 wild milu deer exist in various natural reserves across China, demonstrating successful conservation practices [18]

Core Points - The article highlights the ecological, scientific, and cultural significance of the rare species, the milu deer, in China, particularly in the Dongting Lake National Nature Reserve [2] - The Dongting Lake management has established a rescue center for injured or sick milu deer, equipped with professional medical facilities and staff to ensure timely assistance [2] - The management has also constructed flood refuge platforms to protect milu deer from frequent flooding during the rainy season [2] - In 2016, 16 milu deer were introduced from Jiangsu to enhance genetic diversity and adapt to environmental changes, contributing to the ecological balance in the region [3] - The population of milu deer in the reserve has increased to 323, showing significant growth since the initial protection efforts began [3]