Indian skimmers breed at Satkosia wildlife sanctuary | The New Indian Express
The rare Indian Skimmers have been recorded breeding for the first time in Satkosia wildlife sanctuary in India. Usually arriving at Satkosia between November and March, 24 Skimmers broke routine and stayed back this year. Five nests were discovered, with hatching taking place on April 10. This is significant as the species is listed as endangered, with estimates suggesting there are just 3,000 to 3,500 in India and Bangladesh combined. The Satkosia gorge, where the breeding took place, is also a safe haven for the endangered gharials.
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After 2 decades, cameras click tiger in West Bengal's Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary | TOI
Camera traps have captured images of tigers in West Bengal's Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary after more than two decades. Although indirect evidence of tigers had been found in the sanctuary in 2010, the last photographic record was in 1999. In July, the detailed tiger estimation report is expected to provide a population trend in north Bengal. Tigers from Bhutan and Greater Manas landscapes visit the north Bengal region through the river bed route and that the region is facing threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict, which require more efforts for long-term conservation in this region.
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Odisha: Leopard’s sunstroke sparks soul-searching | TOI
Wildlife officials in the Indian state of Odisha are concerned about the effects of climate change on leopards and other animals. The recent heatwave, which saw temperatures soar to 45°C in some parts of the state, has made life even more difficult for the big cats, which are already under threat from habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservationists have called for the creation of more protected areas and corridors to link fragmented habitats. Meanwhile, officials are also calling for measures to prevent and treat sunstroke in animals, with veterinarians being trained to deal with the problem.
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New frog species found in Meghalaya Siju cave | Down To Earth
A new species of frog has been discovered in the Siju Cave in Meghalaya, India. The cave is home to many rare species and has been declared a Ramsar Site, a wetland of international importance. The new frog species belongs to the genus Micrixalus and has been named Micrixalus Siju after the cave. The discovery was made by researchers from the Zoological Survey of India and the North Eastern Hill University during an expedition. The frog has a unique croaking call and distinctive physical characteristics, including a flat head and smooth skin.
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Forest fire training for villagers helps to protect the Western Ghats | Hindustan Times
The Pune Forest Department and local NGOs in India have trained villagers to prevent forest fires in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. The training programme, which began in 2019, has resulted in a significant reduction in forest fires this year. The initiative includes educating villagers about the importance of biodiversity and the dangers of starting fires, as well as providing equipment such as fire beaters and backpack sprayers. The project has also created employment opportunities for locals who help to monitor the forests and raise awareness about the need to protect them.
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