The Tapada Nacional de Mafra, a unique ecosystem enclosed by a historic wall spanning 833 hectares of native forest, serves as a refuge for native vegetation and large deer and wild boars. The management of this walled space requires rigorous technical work to ensure the health and balance of the animals with the forest.
To manage animal population density and health, the TNM team uses strategically distributed automatic feeders. These devices are not just for feeding but also act as tools for health and behavioral management. They allow for timed food releases to benefit specific species, controlled twice-yearly deworming administration, distribution to prevent excessive animal concentration, and protection of soil and vegetation. Nutritional reinforcement is crucial during periods of high biological demand, such as gestation and nursing. These feeders also support numerous bird species and small rodents, indirectly benefiting their predators.
Recently, the Tapada has recorded acts of vandalism on these feeders by visitors attempting to attract or force animals closer. These actions have severe direct impacts, including the risk of serious injury or death to deer and fallow deer due to tampering with the feeders' suspension ropes, the destruction of expensive technical equipment, and disruption of the animals' natural behavior.
Observing the wildlife of the Tapada de Mafra is a privilege that demands responsibility. The team urges all visitors not to approach, tamper with, or damage the feeders or any other forest and animal management equipment, encouraging observation from a safe distance to help maintain the Tapada as a secure refuge for biodiversity.
