Saving India's only ape, the hoolock gibbon | Mongabay
The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Assam, home to the endangered Western hoolock gibbon, faces a threat due to a railway track fragmenting its habitat. Future electrification plans pose an increased threat to the species navigating their habitat. Scientists advocate conservation through track rerouting and the installation of canopy bridges for the unique hoolock gibbon.
How mothers built a forest in world’s largest delta | The Indian Express
In the Sunderbans, a vulnerable region facing ecological threats, a unique community-led model involves mothers in building and protecting a mangrove forest, addressing climate change impacts. Initiated by schoolteacher Umashankar Mandal, the Mangrove Army, comprising mothers, plants and safeguards mangrove trees, creating a dense forest cover. The forest not only protects against cyclones but also acts as a significant blue carbon sink, contributing to climate change mitigation.
Horseshoe crab decline sparks urgent conservation plea | Mongabay
Scientists and conservationists are urgently calling for the protection of horseshoe crabs along the coast of Odisha, home to two of Asia's three horseshoe crab species. Recognized globally as living fossils with medicinal value, the species faces threats from shoreline alterations, sea-level rise impacting spawning habitats, and destructive fishing practices causing bycatch. Urgent government action is needed to establish a robust conservation plan under the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.
Grassland loss threatens endemic birds in Arunachal sanctuary | Mongabay
Grassland depletion in Arunachal Pradesh's Daying Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary, documented from 2012 to 2022, amounts to 55.91 sq. km. This has jeopardized habitats crucial for the rare Bengal florican and the endemic swamp grass babbler. The loss is attributed to floods, erosion, silt deposition, and human activities. Species dependent on specific habitats face increased vulnerability, unable to swiftly adapt to abrupt environmental changes.
Madhya Pradesh to get country's largest tiger reserve | Times Travel
Madhya Pradesh is on track to establish the nation's largest tiger reserve by merging Noradehi Sanctuary with Durgavati Sanctuary in Damoh district, covering 2,300 sq km. The initiative, approved by the central government, seeks to safeguard the existing tiger population, enhance conservation efforts, and stimulate tourism and local economic growth. The Forest Department aims to operationalize the tiger reserve within the next two to three months.