The Expanding Thread of Ungulate Browsing—A Review of Forest Ecosystem Effects and Management Approaches in Europe

• Published in: Forests
• Main Authors: Darius Hardalau, Codrin Codrean, Daniel Iordache, Mihai Fedorca, Ovidiu Ionescu
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2024
• Subjects: ungulate; browsing; regeneration; forest damage; wildlife management; forest management; Plant ecology; QK900-989; Alces alces
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.3390/f15081311; https://doaj.org/article/9c2127fc8bac463d8ad1a5c6f006ddc0

In recent decades, ungulates have expanded in number and range in Europe. This review aims to analyze the impact of ungulate browsing in different forest ecosystems and identify the main driving factors and trends. In total, 155 studies were analyzed in preparing this review, across 19 European countries. In Europe, the main browsers are represented by roe deer ( Capreolus capreolus L.), red deer ( Cervus elaphus L.), moose ( Alces alces L.), chamois ( Rupicapra rupicapra L.), and fallow deer ( Dama dama L.). Regarding browsing severity, they frequently exceeded 50%, meaning that over half of the saplings were browsed. Ungulate density was the main driving factor of browsing severity, with areas exhibiting high browsing pressure often having more than ten individuals per square kilometer. The type of silvicultural system used played a vital role in the severity of browsing, and trends in foraging for preferred tree species were identified. Fencing was the most common non-harmful protection method used, while hunting management was the most efficient method for controlling deer numbers and browsing intensity. Large carnivores were missing in most study areas, but in the areas where they were present, they played a significant role in creating a chain reaction of ecological impacts. Considering the significant impact of ungulate browsing on forest ecosystems, there is a pressing need for more research to comprehend and effectively mitigate the effects of deer presence comprehensively.