Nara's deer population surges past 1,600, prompting urban excursions

Nara's deer population has exceeded 1,600, a record high, with increasing sightings in urban areas. The increase is attributed to tourists feeding deer high-calorie snacks, boosting survival rates. Overcrowding in Nara Park may also be driving deer into the city. Authorities are working with conservation groups to guide deer back to the park, while predicting a natural population decline due to overcrowding.