Kenai Peninsula deer transplant project sees first successful reproduction

Wildlife biologists have confirmed the first documented reproduction of Sitka black-tailed deer transplanted to the south Kenai Peninsula. A trail camera captured images of a GPS-collared doe with two fawns, marking a significant milestone for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game's efforts to establish a permanent breeding population in the area.

The project follows a difficult first year for the initial group of 19 deer moved from Sitkinak Island via helicopter last fall. Of that original group, 13 deaths were confirmed due to causes including drowning, coyote predation, and hypothermia, leaving only five animals known to be alive by late July.

To bolster the population, the department has initiated a second round of releases, transporting seven does and two bucks to the Port Chatham area. This brings the total number of active GPS collars among adults on the peninsula to 14. Researchers aim to determine if these transplanted animals can successfully sustain themselves in the new environment.