Launched in the spring of 2023, the "Save Bambi" pilot project in Luxembourg has saved no less than 258 fawns. 30% of these fawns were saved from the blades of mowers operating in the six communes that pioneered this initiative.

The main goal of the "Save Bambi" project is to assist farmers in protect young fawns during the mowing season, which happens to coincide with the fawn birthing period.

Since its inception in the spring of 2023, the non-profit association Sauvons Bambi Luxembourg has successfully rescued 258 fawns across the country, with 77 (30%) saved in the six partner municipalities of Garnich, Steinfort, Hobscheid, Koerich, Saeul, and Beckerich. Minister of Agriculture Claude Haagen and the leadership of "Save Bambi" ASBL have jointly provided an encouraging initial evaluation of the pilot project.

To ensure the success of these intricate rescue operations, "Save Bambi" volunteers who operate drones collaborate closely with farmers, hunters, and local authorities to protect the region's wildlife, as stated by the Ministry of Agriculture.

The recurring concern for operators of mowers is that young fawns instinctively freeze and hide in tall grass as farm machinery approaches.

To save them, the association's volunteer drone pilots are despatched upon farmers' requests. They employ thermal cameras to locate the fawns and remove them safely before the mowing process begins. After the mowing is completed, the fawns are released unharmed back into their mother's territory.

Minister of Agriculture Claude Haagen stressed, "The number of fawns rescued has exceeded our expectations, and this aid programme has been requested by many farmers, extending well beyond the boundaries of the six communes participating in the pilot project. It is evident that this initiative has the potential to be expanded to other rural communities that have already expressed interest. The 'Save Bambi' initiative protects both the lives of the fawns and the interests of our farmers, allowing them to mow with greater peace of mind."

Non-profit association is looking for drone pilots

However, for the project to continue and expand, there is a pressing need for additional volunteer drone pilots and assistants during the mowing season, which spans from early April to mid-July. Without these dedicated volunteers, the pilot project's scope may be limited. Consequently, the non-profit association "Save Bambi Luxembourg" has issued a call for volunteer drone pilots and helpers to ensure the initiative can operate on a more professional basis.

The logistical expenses, including drone equipment, are co-financed through an agreement between the Ministry of Agriculture and the partner municipalities.