A South China sika deer fawn follows its mother at Qingliangfeng National Nature Reserve in Hangzhou. [Photo/Tide News]

Nine South China sika deer fawns have been recorded this year at the Qingliangfeng National Nature Reserve in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, marking further growth of the protected species' local population.

Remote video monitoring and infrared cameras have captured the young deer following their mothers through forests and shrubs, documenting their growth from tentative first steps to more active movement.

The South China sika deer is under China's highest level of national wildlife protection, and Qingliangfeng is one of its important habitats. In recent years, the reserve has restored habitats, strengthened patrols and expanded its wildlife monitoring network.

Since 2019, Qingliangfeng has carried out seven releases involving 86 South China sika deer. The wild population in the reserve has now grown to more than 370.

Reserve authorities said they will continue monitoring the population and protecting its habitat. Visitors are also advised not to enter restricted areas or chase or feed wild animals.

A herd of South China sika deer is captured by the reserve's remote monitoring system. [Photo/Tide News]