North Bengal comes together to protect Hornbill species | The Statesman
North Bengal organised a three-day workshop with participants from the region and neighbouring areas to create a conservation plan for five hornbill species, three of them globally threatened. The plan includes strategies for population surveys, habitat protection, community involvement, and awareness initiatives, uniting officials, scientists, and community members to address the vulnerability of hornbills in the area.
New variant of H5N1 bird flu spreads to marine mammals, heightening concerns for human transmission | Business Insider India
A new variant of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, H5N1 (2.3.4.4b), has emerged, spreading to marine mammals along the Atlantic coast of South America. The virus's adaptability poses a threat to diverse species, resulting in mass die-offs among seabirds and high mortality rates among marine mammals. Surveillance efforts are underway to monitor the virus’s potential impacts on vulnerable wildlife, especially penguins.
Conservationists express concerns after report reveals drop in Chhattisgarh's leopard population | ThePrint
Chhattisgarh's leopard population has dropped from 852 in 2018 to 722 in 2022 due to poaching, habitat loss, and prey depletion, as per a government report. Conservationists stress the urgency of improved wildlife management, anti-poaching measures, and public awareness to address the decline. The report underscores the significance of protecting territorial forests where 75% of the leopard population resides.
Backyard bird count records 1036 species from India, 3rd after Colombia, Ecuador | Hindustan Times
During the Great Backyard Bird Count 2024 in India, bird watchers documented 1,036 species, marking the second-highest checklists after the USA and the third-highest species globally, following Colombia and Ecuador. Kerala recorded the most checklists, while West Bengal reported the maximum number of species, with the event engaging participants from all states and union territories for the first time.
India’s first National Dolphin Research Centre finally a reality | Down to Earth
India's first National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) has been inaugurated in Patna, Bihar, with the aim of researching and conserving the endangered Gangetic river dolphin. The centre, operational after facing delays, will focus on studying various aspects of dolphin behaviour, survival skills, food habits, and causes of death. Additionally, it will provide training to fishermen on dolphin conservation and protection, addressing the threats faced by the dolphins in the Ganga river.
Recent Dudhwa survey: Eight of nine vulture species in India sighted in park | Hindustan Times
Over 300 vultures, including eight endangered species such as the Eurasian Griffin and white-rumped vulture, were recently spotted in Dudhwa National Park and its buffer zone, showcasing successful wildlife conservation efforts. The significant sighting highlights Dudhwa's diverse ecosystem, renowned for the conservation of various species, and underscores the ongoing commitment to protecting biodiversity in the region.