The fallow deer influence on enclose forest vegetation

Abstract

The aim of the study was to examine influence of enclosed the fallow-deer on forest vegetation, undergrowth, herbaceous covering and mosses. Investigations carried out in 2005 and 2010 at Anyksciai State Forest Enterprise of Mikieriai forest district fallow-deer enclosure. In 2005 three permanent sample plots were set up: in mixed spruce and birch stand 20 m from a feeder, in the stand dominated by spruce, and mixed spruce, pine and birch stand, at the end of enclosure feeder-wise. Size of each sample plot was 100 m2. Each sample plot was divided into 25 record subplots (2x2 m2 size area), where all undergrowth trees, shrubs were counted, also species composition and percentage projection cover for each species of dwarf shrubs, dwarf shrubs, herbaceous plants and mosses were determined. Results showed that in the five year period, while keeping fallow deer enclosed, average projection cover of undergrowth trees and shrubs had reduced. Already in five, years while keeping fallow deer enclosed, the effect on undergrowth trees, dwarf shrubs, herbaceous showed up mostly and least – on mosses.