Abstract
<jats:p>Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) is a key game species and an important ecological indicator in Romanian hunting grounds. The present study aims to assess the habitat suitability and population trends of roe deer in selected hunting areas in northeastern Romania (Moldova region), based on game management plans, bonitation data, and field observations. We analyzed land use types (forests, pastures, crops), water availability, and quiet zones as core elements of habitat quality. The results indicate that hunting grounds with a balanced proportion of forested areas and open pastures offer optimal conditions for roe deer population growth. However, anthropogenic disturbances such as agricultural intensification, illegal logging, and competition with domestic livestock were observed to negatively influence local densities. The study emphasizes the need for habitat conservation measures, better enforcement of game laws, and adaptive harvest strategies to ensure sustainable populations. Insights from this study may support regional wildlife policies and contribute to biodiversity preservation efforts in the Carpathian foothills.</jats:p>