Study of the Musk Deer Population Structure in Sikhote-Alin Reserve

Abstract Research on population structure and behavior of musk deer has been conducted on defined areas within Sikhote-Alin Reserve (Russian Far East) since 1974 using a combination of techniques (snowtracking, visual observation, and radiotracking since 2012). We have acquired previously unknown data on the structure of the overall population and sub-groups, home range size, sex and age-related differences in habitat use, inheritance of home ranges and territories between generations, mechanisms regulating distribution of individuals and population structure. This knowledge is extremely valuable in understanding recent population declines of musk deer associated with habitat destruction, unregulated hunting and natural cycles in population size.