Chhattisgarh to get new tiger reserve amid declining tiger population
After a drastic drop in Chhattisgarh’s tiger population from 46 in 2014 to 17 in 2022, the state has officially approved the creation of a new tiger reserve, marking a significant step in tiger conservation efforts. Announced recently, the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve will be the third largest in India, spanning 2,829 sq km across four northern districts of the state.
Almost the entire population of Indian wolves exists outside of protected areas, says Lauren Hennelly
An interview with wolf expert Lauren Hennelly revealed that most Indian wolves live outside Protected Areas, making collaborative efforts between local communities, NGOs, and the government vital for their future. Currently, there is an ongoing initiative to include the species under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, which will significantly affect conservation efforts.
Indus river dolphins in troubled waters
The Indus River dolphins in the Beas River are critically endangered, with fewer than 10 individuals remaining. Researchers emphasise that immediate conservation efforts are essential to prevent further decline. These include working with local communities to reduce human-caused mortality, removing fishing nets, managing pollution, and possibly supplementing the population through translocations.
Critically endangered long-billed vultures reintroduced in natural habitat at Pench reserve
Pench Tiger Reserve, in collaboration with the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), has successfully reintroduced critically endangered long-billed vultures into their natural habitat. Ten vultures, brought from the Jatayu Conservation & Breeding Center in Haryana, were released after seven months of acclimatisation. The released vultures, fitted with GPS tags, quickly integrated with wild populations, marking a significant conservation milestone.
Mugger crocodiles may be physiologically stressed in disturbed habitats
A new study reveals that mugger crocodiles in Vadodara, a region with high human-crocodile conflict, experience chronic stress levels, which could be harmful to their health. Researchers found higher stress levels in the muggers of urban Vadodara compared to those in the rural, more serene Charotar region. The study highlights the need for tailored conservation strategies based on local conditions to ensure the well-being and survival of these vital apex predators.