Endangered Gangetic dolphins found in most tributaries of Ganges, prompting urgent conservation | Mongabay
A recent study has identified the presence of endangered Gangetic dolphins in multiple tributaries of the Ganges River, designating 620 kilometres as critical conservation areas. Experts emphasise that coordinated efforts involving local fishing communities, NGOs, and government stakeholders are essential to mitigate threats such as pollution, overfishing, and dam construction, thereby ensuring the survival of the species.
Sri Lankan golden-backed frog rediscovered after 200 years in India’s Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary | The Hindu
The Sri Lankan golden-backed frog (Hylarana gracilis) was rediscovered in India's Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary after 200 years, highlighting a historic land bridge between India and Sri Lanka. This finding, increasing India's freshwater frog species to 20, underscores the significance of protecting this rare species and supports evidence of past land connections during the late Pleistocene period.
Over half of world’s mangroves face collapse due to human actions and climate change | Down to Earth
A global assessment by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reveals that over half of the world's mangrove ecosystems face collapse due to human activities and climate change. These vital ecosystems, crucial for carbon sequestration and coastal protection, are threatened by deforestation, pollution, and rising sea levels. Urgent conservation efforts are needed to prevent significant ecological and economic losses.
Census exercise begins in Himachal’s cold desert Lahaul & Spiti district to estimate blue sheep, Himalayan ibex | Down to Earth
Wildlife authorities in Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul & Spiti district have commenced a census to estimate the populations of blue sheep (bharal) and Himalayan ibex, key prey for snow leopards. The survey, conducted by the National Conservation Foundation and Wildlife Division, Spiti, uses the double observer technique over 15 days. Recent conservation efforts have led to increased sightings of these species, boosting wildlife tourism and fostering local conservation support.
Shy primates shun forests and take over Valparai looking for food | The Hindu
Lion-tailed macaques have been entering human settlements more frequently in Valparai, Tamil Nadu due to habitat degradation, easy access to food waste, and disruption from roads. This behavioural shift from their natural arboreal habits has led to increased sightings and conflicts in urban areas. Conservation efforts, including canopy corridors and improved waste management, are being implemented to address this issue and protect the endangered species.
New jumping spider species discovered | The Hindu
Researchers from Kerala and Tamil Nadu have discovered two new species of jumping spiders, Habrocestum sahyadri and Irura shendurney, in the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Western Ghats. Their findings, published in the European Journal of Taxonomy, also reported other notable spider species in the area, highlighting the need for further research to understand and conserve the region's diverse salticid fauna. This study underscores the importance of ongoing explorations to protect these species in the fragile ecosystem of the Western Ghats.