Four fawn carcasses, some missing parts of their bodies, were found over about a month and a half around Nara Park and in the grounds of temples nearby, NHK reported. Nara Prefecture, judging from the condition of the remains, suspects people may have harmed the animals and has reported the matter to police.
The prefecture is also taking other steps in response, NHK reported, though its account of the case stops there. The report did not say where or when each carcass was found, or what parts were missing.
Nara's deer are a protected species and the center of the city's tourist trade, drawing visitors who feed them senbei rice crackers sold by vendors in the park. The animals roam freely through the park and surrounding streets, and the trust that lets visitors walk among them is the basis of that trade.
The deaths come as wildlife encounters draw wider attention in Japan. NHK's own coverage this season has included maps and analysis of bear sightings and advice on avoiding attacks.