The town of Linarejos in Zamora, with only 10 inhabitants, has been deeply affected by the death of a beloved deer known as Carlitos. The deer, recognizable by its distinctive antlers with 14 points, was a frequent visitor to the town and was often seen grazing or eating apples. The residents of Linarejos, devastated by the loss of the deer, have painted its silhouette on various surfaces as a way of paying tribute to it. Carlitos was killed last September, and although the official confirmation of his death is not available, the residents strongly believe that he was the one who was hunted.
The local community in Linarajos mobilized in September when they witnessed environmental agents from the Junta guiding hunters. Two attempts to hunt down Carlitos were thwarted by the residents, who then collected thousands of virtual signatures to demand justice for the deer. Despite assurances from the regional delegate that Carlitos was not in danger and would not be hunted, the deer’s disappearance left the town in mourning. The authorities have cited various reasons for the deer’s absence, including migration to other areas or predation by wolves. However, the residents firmly believe that Carlitos was killed and that the authorities are covering up the truth.
One of the residents, Pilar Devesa, who has been actively advocating for the deer’s protection, expressed disappointment at the lack of concrete information from the authorities regarding the investigation. The community has been disillusioned by the disappearance of Carlitos, a familiar presence in the town, even attracting tourists to the local rural house. The community, which had grown fond of the deer, fondly remembers the times when Carlitos roamed the streets, interacting with the locals. Despite the lack of official confirmation, residents like Eloy Martín are convinced that the remains found correspond to Carlitos based on distinctive markings and characteristics.
Eloy Martín, a witness to the deer’s final moments, recalled hearing gunshots while on a walk near Linarejos. He observed environmental agents and hunters in the area, and upon discovering the deer’s remains, he immediately reported the incident to the authorities. The residents of Linarejos, frustrated by the lack of transparency from the authorities, remain resigned to the fact that they may never receive definitive answers. Despite their strong belief in Carlitos’ tragic fate, they have little power to challenge the Junta’s decisions. The loss of the deer has left a void in the community, as they mourn the passing of a unique and cherished animal that had become a part of their daily lives.
The story of Carlitos, the deer of Linarejos, is a poignant tale of community unity and love for nature. Despite their efforts to protect the deer from harm, the residents of Linarejos were unable to save him from his fate. The legacy of Carlitos lives on through the painted silhouettes and memories of the residents, who continue to hope for justice and closure. The silence surrounding the deer’s death underscores the challenges faced by rural communities in protecting their wildlife and the complex dynamics between conservation, hunting, and human-wildlife interactions. The loss of Carlitos has left a lasting impact on Linarejos, where the memory of the majestic deer continues to inspire a sense of solidarity among its residents.
