Milu: A Remarkable Journey from Near Extinction to Global Recognition in China
Milu: The Name Returns
On November 27, a significant event took place in Shishou, Hubei, commemorating four decades since the return of the Milu—also known as Pere David's Deer—to its native land. This event marked not only a celebration of the species' survival but also a pivotal recognition from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which has officially adopted "Milu" as the species' international name. After over 150 years, the original name of this magnificent creature has finally regained global acknowledgment.
A Historical Perspective
The story of the Milu spans over 160 years. During this time, it was primarily known in the Western world by the name “Pere David's Deer.” However, for centuries prior, it was called “Milu” in China, a name steeped in cultural and historical significance. The tale of the Milu began in the expanse of the Yunmeng marshlands, a vital ecosystem in what is now the middle Yangtze River basin. Ancient texts, oracle bone inscriptions, and bronze artifacts reference the Milu, which was initially described as a creature resembling a combination of a deer, horse, cow, and donkey—known in Chinese as
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