The planet has lost 83% of its freshwater aquatic life in 50 years, finds report
World Wildlife Fund reports an 83% decline in freshwater species populations in the last 50 years. The report uses data from almost 32,000 populations of 5,230 species compiled by the Zoological Survey of London. Asian countries, including India, have seen a 55% decline in wildlife populations. The most significant decline (94%) has been observed in Latin America and the Caribbean region. The results highlight the need for a nature-positive society.
Read more here.
Hesaraghatta grasslands: People’s will to decide its fate
The Karnataka State Wildlife Board will conduct a public consultation meeting to decide whether the 5,000 acres of Hesaraghatta grasslands will be declared as a conservation reserve. Activists in the area worry about bias if the meeting is conducted in the surrounding villages. Claims of distribution of pamphlets with misleading information about the grassland further sparks concerns amongst environmentalists.
Read more here.
Carnivore gut microbes offer insight into health of wild ecosystems
A study by the North Carolina State University found that microbes in the gut of wild martens differ between animals that live in pristine habitat and those in disturbed areas. By testing animal faeces and comparing gut microbiomes, scientists can now tell how much impact humans have in an area, thereby assessing the health of wild ecosystems.
Read more here.
Killing of Amur falcons in Manipur hills evoke reactions from concerned citizens
Amur falcons, the world’s longest travelling raptors, face hunting threats in the Tamenglong district of Manipur, where they stop before making a non-stop flight to Africa for the winter. After successful awareness campaigns in the past such as the Amur falcon festival, citizens claim a lack of effort from the forest department this year. Four people have been arrested after being found in possession of 3 air guns and 27 dead falcons.
Read more here.