Endemic Malabar Tree Toad populations may decline 68.7% due to climate change: Study | Down to Earth
According to a study, the Malabar tree toad, endemic to India's Western Ghats, may see its distribution decline by 68.7% due to climate change. The research highlights the vulnerability of amphibians to climate change and stresses the importance of conservation efforts in the central Western Ghats, where suitable habitats are projected to decrease significantly.
Tech-savvy Uttarakhand forest dept taps AI to reduce chances of human-wildlife conflict | The New Indian Express
The Uttarakhand Forest Department is using AI and modern camera traps to reduce human-wildlife conflict by tracking animals like tigers, elephants, and leopards in real time. A trial in Corbett Tiger Reserve has shown encouraging results, and the technology could be expanded to other sensitive areas to prevent wildlife-related incidents.
National coastal body says Great Nicobar project no longer in prohibited zone, making way for a port | Mongabay
The Great Nicobar Island development project, which includes plans for a port, has faced legal challenges and opposition over environmental concerns. A coastal authority has reclassified the project area, indicating it no longer falls within a prohibited fragile zone, potentially allowing the port's construction. The reasoning behind this reclassification and the government's acceptance of it has not been publicly disclosed.
An unfortunate resemblance: Why conservation evades the depleting Mettukurinji of Western Ghats | Down to Earth
The Mettukurinji, a rare flower in the Western Ghats, faces conservation challenges due to its similarity to the Neelakurinji and the impacts of climate change. Despite its ecological and medicinal significance, it remains under-researched, leading to concerns about its survival. Better conservation efforts and a deeper understanding of the species are required before it disappears.
Illegal wildlife trade: When creatures of the sea take flight | The Hindu
The illegal wildlife trade of marine species like seahorses and seashells is rising with Karnataka emerging as a hotspot. While enforcement agencies have uncovered many cases, several still go undetected. The trade is fueled by demand for traditional medicine, gourmet cuisine, and exotic pets, with the pandemic further exacerbating the situation. Conservationists stress the importance of public involvement and better enforcement to protect these vulnerable species.
Conservation drones need to overcome some takeoff troubles | Mongabay
Drones are increasingly being used in Indian forests for conservation tasks like mapping habitats, and monitoring wildlife. However, widespread adoption faces challenges such as high costs, limited battery life, regulatory constraints, and lack of training. Experts stress that there is a need for affordable technology, better awareness, and a standard operating procedure to optimise drone use in forest conservation.