Helpers in need: hunters and drones save fawn in the Gmünd district!

Helpers in need: hunters and drones save fawn in the Gmünd district!

In the Gmünd district, a lot is currently being done for the protection of the fawn. During the mowing season, the hunters work tirelessly to save the little animals from mowing. Because the fawns hide in high grass and do not flee in the event of danger, which makes it particularly vulnerable. The focus is on close cooperation between farmers, hunters and drone pilots. [Meinverzirk] reports that the hunters comb through the meadows and fields before the mowing work to bring the little deer to safety.

The use of thermal drones has established itself as a particularly effective method. These drones are used in the early morning hours when the temperature difference between the animals and the surrounding area is particularly clear. Equipped with high -resolution thermal imaging cameras, the drones can also search for the hidden fawns in the thick grass.

cooperation is the A and O

Successful fawn rescue not only requires technology, but also careful planning. The day before, farmers have to announce which areas they want to mow to coordinate the hunters and drones's missions. It is important that at least two to three people are involved in the actions. This is the only way to ensure that every fawn is really brought to safety in the hustle and bustle of the mowing time.

To support this use, new "Kitz rescue boxes" were purchased. These robust and easy to assemble boxes are tailored to the size of the fawn and offer the animals a safe place during the mowing. The boxes are distributed by the district hunter masters to the territories who take care of the Kitzreettung intensively. After the mowing, the fawns can be released into the care of their mothers. The evaluation of these boxes is scheduled for the course of the year to decide on a possible purchase for the future.

funding from the government

But not only in the Gmünd district is working on the rescue of the fawn. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Home (BMLEH) also supports the purchase of drones that are equipped with thermal imaging cameras. As part of the federal funding program Rehkitz Rescue, 2.5 million euros will be made available. Among other things, entitled to funding are registered district hunting clubs and fawn rescue associations. It is important that applications must be submitted online by June 17, 2025 via the federal funding portal [ble] [drohnen.de].

From November 20, 2024, new regulations also apply for the use of drones for animal welfare purposes. Unmanned aircraft between 250 grams and 25 kilograms may be operated closer than 150 meters to residential and commercial areas, provided that there is a distance of more than 10 meters to these areas. This is intended to help the drone users to make animal rescue more efficient [drohnen.de].

The collaboration in the Gmünd district shows that joint action can do a lot. It is to be hoped that the measures will continue to be so successful and that many fawns can be preserved from mowing death.