Conserving the White-tailed Deer: Environmental Perceptions of Two Communities in the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve, Morelos

Abstract

 For the inhabitants of the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve in the state of Morelos, the white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus mexicanus) is a community resource with multiple uses, as well as a source of income and employment for residents. Furthermore, it is valued for providing a sense of cultural identity, tradition, and collective memory. We analyzed the environmental perceptions of the residents of two communities with Wildlife Management Units, where deer has been utilized for the past 20 years. Through qualitative research techniques (interviews), we identified the costs and benefits that conservation represents for the involved communities over time, as well as their current issues, interests, and future perspectives. Testimonies from both communities coincide in the feasibility of carrying out adequate resource management, as long as both the government and the community commit to respecting the agreements. Our analysis suggests that the factors that will determine the conservation of deer and the forest are compliance with hunting regulations, the care of neighboring communal lands, community surveillance to prevent poaching, the transmission of knowledge regarding deer care and utilization, and the constant support from government agencies and external institutions.