Oct 04 (NHK) - The western Japanese city of Nara known for its deer is investigating allegations that the animals have been abused.
Municipal officials in Nara say a veterinarian reported last month that hundreds of deer kept in a special fenced area were being given insufficient food and have weakened.
The facility is operated by a group that protects deer in and around Nara Park. The Nara Deer Preservation Foundation accommodates animals that have damaged farm products or harmed people. The veterinarian said more than 70 deer die every year at the facility.
The group says it feeds the animals sufficiently. It called the accusations of abuse "regrettable."
It says deer in the facility may be stressed from living in a group, which they are not used to, especially males. ...continue reading
