Overpopulation and Environmental Issues
Damage from Deer Feeding on Vegetation
Problems Caused by Overpopulation of Deer
The large resident deer population damages plants and tree bark. This, in turn, is altering the natural landscape of Oku-Nikko. The park is implementing countermeasures to conserve the environment, including fences to keep out the deer.
Problems with Invasive Species
Invasion of Non-native Plant Species
Humans have introduced non-native plants to Oku-Nikko, which have thrived, damaging native plant species. Volunteers remove these alien species in order to help restore the natural environment.