In 2025 Switzerland marked a primacy in rescuing roe deer puppies from the mowing thanks to the joint commitment of over 700 teams of volunteers and the intensive use of drones with thermalbenters. In total, 6,451 small were rescued, also exceeding the previous record season. The result is the result of a targeted strategy that combines technology, training and widespread coordination in the area.
The crucial period to protect the Caprioletti coincides with the seasonal season, from the end of April to early July. In 2025 a warm and dry spring pushed many mothers to give birth in the meadows instead of in the woods, making the little ones more identifiable.
The favorable weather conditions have allowed drones to operate more effectively, increasing the visibility and safety of missions. In total, about 62,693 hectares of fields were flying over, i.e. 20,000 hectares more than the previous year.
Because the rescue is vital
Capriolo infants adopt an instinctive defense strategy: they remain motionless in the high grass to escape predators. This behavior, useful in nature, however becomes a serious risk during the passage of agricultural machines. Every year, according to official estimates, at least 1,500 puppies lose their lives in this way, but experts believe that the real number is much higher. The timely intervention of the volunteers allows you to identify the children and transfer them to safe areas before the mowing.
A challenge that continues
The success of 2025 is also linked to the increase in the hours of intervention, which exceeded 6,300 overall days, and the formation of numerous new drones pilots. The contribution of the Swiss protection of animals and the Caprioletto rescue association has made it possible to strengthen the surveillance network and to organize more regular interventions during the entire season of chiefflowing.
Despite the record numbers, the rescue of the Caprioletti remains an open challenge. Every year, the combination of agricultural activity and instinctive behavior of animals puts thousands of lives at risk. The use of drones, combined with the dedication of the volunteers, however shows that the coexistence between agriculture and wildlife is possible, as long as you maintain high attention and invest in innovative solutions.
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