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News18
11 hours ago
- General
- News18
Tripura steps up efforts to save Indias last ape species
Agency: PTI Last Updated: Agartala, Jul 25 (PTI) The Tripura government unveiled a detailed action plan aimed at protecting the endangered Western Hoolock Gibbon — the only ape species found in India, in a major push for wildlife conservation. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the state's efforts to safeguard its fragile biodiversity and tackle the alarming decline in the gibbon population. Listed as 'endangered" on the IUCN Red List and protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Western Hoolock Gibbon enjoys the highest degree of legal protection. Yet, its numbers have continued to decline over the years, largely due to habitat loss, hunting, and human-wildlife conflicts. Tripura, an ecologically rich state in the northeast, harbours one of the country's last remaining gibbon populations. These agile, tree-dwelling primates are known for their spectacular aerial swings across forest canopies and hauntingly melodic calls that echo through the jungle. But once-flourishing forests have shrunk and fragmented, leaving fewer safe spaces for them to thrive. A survey in 2005 recorded 97 individual gibbons across three forest patches in Tripura. That number has since dipped to 79, divided among 32 groups, officials said. Nationally, the gibbon population stood at about 12,000 two decades ago, but conservationists fear it may now be significantly lower. Tripura University's professor Sabyasachi Dasgupta, who is actively involved in the project, said establishing protocols for long-term population monitoring and restoring degraded forest habitats are part of the action plan. Training forest staff and law enforcement in wildlife protection, conducting ecological and behavioural research and promoting community awareness and participation in conservation are also the goals of it, he said. The gibbons of the state mainly live in protected areas such as Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary in South Tripura, and forests in Gomati and Khowai districts. However, conservationists caution that without proactive steps to prevent further forest degradation, gibbons may vanish from the wild. 'We are emphasising the need to maintain cultural integrity while protecting the gibbons," Dasgupta said. 'Traditional methods like shifting cultivation are deeply rooted, but they often disrupt forest continuity. We need strategies that reduce ecological harm while respecting cultural traditions. Canopy connectivity is crucial for gibbon movement and survival," he added. Divisional Forest Officer of Gomati H Vignesh said gibbons have been spotted in the Amarpur subdivision, though accurate population data is still being collected. Bimal Das, the assistant conservator at Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary, confirmed that eight gibbons are currently thriving within its core zone. Grassroots conservation campaigns are also underway, with NGOs and academics engaging communities living near forest fringes. These programmes aim to reduce human-animal conflict, especially incidents involving crop damage and encroachment, while highlighting the ecological role of gibbons, officials said. As awareness grows and conservation efforts gain momentum, environmentalists believe Tripura has the potential to become a model for gibbon preservation across the region, and a beacon of hope for India's only ape. PTI JOY SOM view comments First Published: July 25, 2025, 10:30 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
3 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Neelakurinji Bloom: No Proposals From Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka to Declare It a Threatened Species
Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka have not proposed declaring neelakurinji a threatened species under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, says Botanical Survey of India Despite neelakurinji's famed 12-year bloom cycle and declining populations, Tamil Nadu , Kerala and Karnataka have not proposed declaring it a threatened species under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) told the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Tuesday. The NGT had in Aug 2024 registered a suo motu case based on a report that neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) had been identified as Vulnerable (Criteria A2c) under the IUCN Red List following its first-ever global assessment. You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai The NGT noted that the endemic shrub of the southwest Indian montane grasslands was reported to have lost almost 40% of its habitat, with remaining areas threatened by tea and softwood plantations, invasive eucalyptus and black wattle species, urbanisation, infrastructure projects, afforestation programmes, and climate change. Peermade in Kerala was cited as one of the locations where recent blooming was reported. The Tribunal directed BSI, Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, and the ministry of environment, forest and climate change to respond and assist in determining whether environmental and biodiversity laws were being complied with in the context of neelakurinji conservation. In its submission on July 15, BSI stated that though neelakurinji has been reported as vulnerable globally, no formal proposal from any state, including Tamil Nadu, has been received to notify it as threatened under national law. BSI disputed reports of a 40% population decline, asserting that no conclusive scientific data exists to support that figure and indicated the need for a comprehensive reassessment across affected habitats. Contrary to the long-held view that neelakurinji grows at elevations between 1,340m and 2,600m, BSI pointed routecent field records show the plant grows at altitudes as low as 1,100m, a habitat shift that warrants closer investigation. BSI also said most subpopulations remain fragmented, with some having fewer than 500 plants, and that factors such as habitat loss, declining pollinator interactions, and the long 12-year flowering cycle continue to threaten the species. It confirmed that neelakurinji occurs in more than 34 locations, many outside protected areas, including on revenue land, further complicating conservation strategies.
Time of India
17-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Silvered leaf monkey, cuscuses seized at Kolkata airport
1 2 3 4 5 6 Kolkata: In the third seizure of rare and exotic animals at Kolkata airport since this Feb, a silvery lutung or silvered leaf monkey — an old-world monkey native to Sumatra, Borneo and Java — and a pair of common spotted cuscuses — a nocturnal marsupial found in Australia, New Guinea and nearby islands — were seized by Customs Air Intelligence Unit early on Thursday. Later, teams from the West Bengal forest department and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) reached the spot for identification and handling of the animals. A 35-year-old woman from north Kolkata has been detained in this connection. Sources said the consignment came on an Indigo flight from Bangkok. "The animals were brought in baskets meant for carrying garments for babies. Hence, it was initially getting difficult to have a closer look at the animals for identification," said an official. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata On June 27, two cuscuses — that look like slow loris — were seized at Kolkata airport. This Feb, two critically endangered red-shanked doucs, found only in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos were seized by Customs officials at Kolkata airport. Silvery lutung, said sources, is an old-world monkey. It is arboreal, living in coastal, mangrove, and riverine forests in Sumatra, Borneo, Java, as well as in parts of the southwestern Malay Peninsula, the Natuna Islands, and other nearby islands. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 20 Pieces of Clothing you should Ditch over 40 Learn More Undo The silvery lutung is classified as 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List. Its habitat is heavily threatened throughout its range by logging and the development of oil palm plantations. It is also threatened by hunting for meat and by capture for the pet trade. Cuscuses are slow-moving animals often found foraging on leaves, plants, and sometimes even catching birds and lizards. They are known for their long fur and large eyes. During the seizure in June, it couldn't be identified if it was a Waigeou cuscus or a common spotted cuscus. The officials of animal husbandry and dairying, animal quarantine and certification services, had issued orders in June as well as in Feb so that the seized animals could be deported to their country of origin. An official from the dept on Thursday said a process was on to identify the species. "A decision on their deportation will follow accordingly," he said.
Observer
15-07-2025
- Observer
The Seasonal Spectacle of the Socotra Cormorant in Musandam
Photos by Ali al Harbi Each year, between July and September, the coastlines of Musandam are transformed into a breathtaking scene, one that occurs only once annually and captures the hearts of nature lovers and wildlife photographers alike. It is the season when the elusive Socotra Cormorant makes its way to the shores of Oman, turning the northern tip of the Sultanate into a living stage for a rare natural performance. For birdwatchers and photographers in search of extraordinary moments, this seasonal migration is nothing short of a gift, one that draws lenses and eyes from all corners of the country and beyond. This dark-feathered seabird, known scientifically as Phalacrocorax nigrogularis, is named after Socotra Island in Yemen but migrates across specific regions of the Arabian Gulf. Standing up to 80 centimetres tall, the Socotra Cormorant is distinguished by its shimmering black plumage and graceful movements. Oman's Musandam coast serves as one of the bird's key seasonal stopovers and one of the most remarkable, as the species is globally classified as 'Vulnerable' by the IUCN Red List. What makes this bird particularly captivating is its synchronized behaviour. It travels in flocks that can number in the tens of thousands, swimming in perfect harmony as if composing a moving artwork across the sea's surface. Underwater, the cormorant displays agile hunting techniques, diving up to 15 metres deep and remaining submerged for more than three minutes while pursuing sardines, anchovies, and other small fish — an extraordinary feat among seabirds of the region. Musandam's isolated and quiet beaches provide the ideal sanctuary for the cormorant's summer migration, which typically begins in July and lasts until late September or early October. During this brief window, the coastline becomes a hub of ecological activity. Studies have recorded as many as 45,000 birds congregating along the shores of Musandam during the summer months, making it one of the largest and most vital gathering sites for this species in the world. For photographers, researchers, and birding enthusiasts, this gathering presents a rare opportunity to observe and document the bird's natural behaviour without the need to travel to remote islands or restricted reserves. What astonishes many observers is not only the sheer size of the flocks but also the bird's endurance and flight capabilities. Despite having relatively narrow wings, the Socotra Cormorant is capable of travelling vast distances with remarkable efficiency. One of the most visually stunning moments happens at sunrise and sunset, when thousands of birds take flight or land in synchronised waves, casting dancing shadows across the ocean in a spectacle that seems almost choreographed by nature itself. Recognising the ecological and tourism value of this annual phenomenon, Oman has taken deliberate steps to protect the Socotra Cormorant and its natural habitats. National efforts include monitoring migratory populations, restricting disruptive human activities during the migration season, and designating areas of high ecological importance for special conservation oversight by entities such as the Environment Authority. Moreover, Oman's vision for sustainable eco-tourism increasingly embraces such natural spectacles, aiming to transform them into meaningful experiences that support local communities whilst preserving biodiversity. For photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone drawn to rare and fleeting wonders, the presence of the Socotra Cormorant on Musandam's shores is an open invitation. This majestic and mysterious bird calls on you to witness its journey, to capture moments that cannot be replicated, and to become part of a quiet celebration of nature's artistry. Its presence is more than just a seasonal migration; it's a symbol of the delicate balance between nature and humanity, a reminder that some treasures, once lost, may never return. In the end, the migration of the Socotra Cormorant is not merely a biological event. It is a silent festival of life, a visual symphony that touches the soul of every person who believes in the beauty of the natural world. With every new season, this bird reminds us that Oman is home to some of the planet's most extraordinary ecological treasures, gems worth protecting, cherishing, and sharing with the world.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
43 species make Kaziranga leading grassland bird habitat
Guwahati: Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) emerged as a leading grassland bird habitat in India after 43 such species, including one critically endangered, two endangered, and six vulnerable ones,were identified in the inaugural grassland bird survey at the park. This establishes Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) as a leading grassland bird habitat in India, park officials said on Monday. A total of 43 grassland bird species were recorded, along with several species endemic to the region, as per the IUCN Red List. The publication of KNPTR's first grassland bird survey report marks a vital step in wildlife conservation across the northeast. This detailed documentation acts as an essential reference for understanding and protecting bird species dependent on the Brahmaputra floodplains' grassland ecosystems. "Thrilled to share that @kaziranga_'s first-ever grassland survey recorded 43 grassland bird species—including 1 Critically Endangered, 2 Endangered, and 6 Vulnerable species, plus several regional endemics. The Brahmaputra floodplain ecosystem boasts the highest diversity of grassland obligate birds in India, reflecting the habitat's robust health and effective protection. Our commitment to science-backed management continues strong!" state forest minister Chandra Mohan Patowary wrote on X on Monday. Patowary expressed satisfaction regarding the endangered Finn's Weaver (Ploceus megarhynchus), known locally as tukura chorai, successfully breeding in Kaziranga. "This remarkable bird, a LIFER for birdwatchers, is also a master nest-builder atop trees, and is a vital indicator of grassland health. A proud moment for conservation and habitat management!" Patowary added. KNPTR field director Sonali Ghosh highlighted that the survey concentrated on ten focal species that are globally threatened or endemic to the Brahmaputra floodplains — Bengal Florican, Swamp Francolin, Finn's Weaver, Swamp Grass Babbler, Jerdon's Babbler, Slender-billed Babbler, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Marsh Babbler, Bristled Grassbird, and Indian Grassbird. Ghosh noted the significant discovery of the endangered Finn's Weaver breeding colony at Kaziranga. "This remarkable bird (a LIFER for many birdwatchers), a master nest-builder atop trees, is a vital indicator of grassland health," she said. The recorded species function as ecological indicators of floodplain grasslands' health and integrity. The study utilised passive acoustic recorders for non-invasive monitoring in difficult-to-access areas, improving detection of elusive birds and enhancing result accuracy. The report establishes a foundation for long-term grassland bird conservation and emphasises continued ecological monitoring. "This pioneering work reaffirms Kaziranga's stature not only as a stronghold for charismatic megafauna but also as a critical refuge for avian biodiversity within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot," Ghosh added. She said the report demonstrates the integration of scientific methods in protected area management, providing a framework for other landscapes. The report resulted from collaboration between forest officials, scientists, and conservationists and numerous other specialists.
