Leopard cat sighted in Maharashtra’s Pench Tiger Reserve for first time | ThePrint
A leopard cat has been sighted for the first time in Maharashtra's Pench Tiger Reserve, identified through camera trapping near Narahar village. This discovery, marking the species' first recorded presence in central India, underscores the importance of studying animal distributions for comprehensive conservation efforts. Leopard cats are known for their 'adaptive flexibility' and are restricted to North East India, the north Himalayan states, West Bengal, Odisha, and the Western Ghats.
India’s Forest Cover Has Increased Consistently Over Last 15 Years | The Weather Channel
India's forest cover has consistently increased over the past 15 years, according to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change at the 19th UN Forum on Forests. This growth, attributed to advancements in forest conservation and sustainable management, places India third globally in net forest area gain. The country prioritises biodiversity through an extensive network of protected areas and initiatives like Project Tiger and Project Elephant.
Ridiculously rare photo catches Asian caracal swimming a river in India | Mongabay
A tourist captured a rare photo of a caracal, an endangered medium-sized wild cat, swimming across the Chambal River in Madhya Pradesh, India, where the species was thought to be extinct. This unusual sighting highlights the pressures on caracal habitats, prompting conservationists to call for better protection measures. The caracal, once prominent in Indian culture, now survives in only three states due to habitat destruction and competition from invasive species.
In Andhra-Odisha coast, ghost gear poses a serious threat to marine life | The Hindu
Ghost gear, abandoned or lost fishing nets, poses a significant threat to marine life along the Andhra-Odisha coast. Efforts by the Fishery Survey of India and other organisations aim to address this issue through retrieval, recycling initiatives, and raising awareness. However, the collection mechanisms remain fragmented, providing little incentive for fishermen to participate actively. Researchers stress the need for stricter regulations and better repurposing solutions for old gear.
Ivory, rhino horn trafficking has declined but global problems persist: UN report | The Indian Express
The UN's World Wildlife Crime Report reveals a decline in elephant ivory and rhinoceros horn trafficking globally due to efforts in demand reduction and enforcement. However, overall wildlife trafficking remains a significant problem, with seizures recorded in 162 countries involving over 4,000 species, including those protected under CITES. India is also experiencing a surge in seizures, mainly of live exotic animals facilitated by online platforms, posing threats to local ecosystems.
Researchers describe a new cicada species, bicolor butterfly, from Meghalaya | Mongabay
Researchers have identified a new cicada species, Becquartina bicolor, in Meghalaya's South Garo Hills and Ri Bhoi districts. Commonly known as the bicolour butterfly cicada, it is the first of its genus reported in India, appearing annually during the summer season. The indigenous Garo community has prior knowledge of this cicada, emphasising the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) into research.
Olive Ridleys in Goa hatch conservation record | Times of India
Olive Ridley turtle eggs laid in Goa are expected to exceed 35,000 this season, marking the highest preservation point in 30 years. This milestone reflects the successful collaboration between Goan communities and the state forest department. Over 200 nests have been nurtured across prominent nesting sites, including Morjim, Mandrem, Galgibaga, and Agonda.