Latest news with #InternationalUnionforConservationofNature
Borneo Post
5 hours ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Eurasian Otter rediscovered in Sabah
Map showing location of Tangkulap Forest Reserve (dark green) in central Sabah. Tangkulap Forest Reserve becomes Malaysia's first habitat for all four native otter species Malaysia is a haven to wildlife, including four of the world's 14 species of otters. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, these include the Smooth-coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata), the Asian Small-clawed Otter (Aonyx cinereus), and the rare, elusive, and Endangered Hairy-nosed Otter (Lutra sumatrana). For years, the existence of the Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) in Malaysia had remained uncertain, with the last confirmed sighting reported in 2014 near the Danum Valley Field Centre in Sabah. Panthera's recent work within the Deramakot-Tangkulap Landscape has provided definitive evidence, dispelling any lingering doubts. This discovery marks a significant leap forward in understanding Malaysia's rich wildlife and underscores the necessity of continued conservation efforts in this region. Who is Panthera? The Panthera logo. Panthera, established in 2006, is a global conservation organization committed to the survival of all 40 wild cat species and the diverse ecosystems we inhabit. Panthera's team of biologists, data scientists, law enforcement specialists, and advocates works tirelessly to study and protect the seven big cat species: cheetahs, jaguars, leopards, lions, pumas, snow leopards, and tigers. The team also prioritizes conserving overlooked small cat species through tailored strategies. Immersed in the murky waters of a freshwater swamp, strategically set up the camera trap to study wildlife. Panthera Malaysia was established as a subsidiary in 2020. In Sabah, with the crucial support of the Sabah Forestry Department and the Sabah Wildlife Department, the efforts focus on combating poaching and protecting critical habitats for the region's diverse small cat populations. These include the Sunda clouded leopard (Neofelis diardi), Borneo Bay cat (Catopuma badia), flat-headed cat (Prionailurus planiceps), marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata). Panthera's office in Sabah is based at the Forest Research Centre in Sepilok. How did the presence of Eurasian otters was discovered? An elusive and endangered flat-headed cat (Prionailurus planiceps) holds its prey, a striped snakehead (Channa striata), commonly known as 'ikan haruan' in Malay. As part of Panthera's efforts to understand the elusive Flat-headed cat, a survey targeting the freshwater-aquatic habitat within the Tangkulap Forest Reserve, Sabah, was conducted. During this survey, an unexpected discovery was encountered: the first photographic evidence of the Eurasian otter in Malaysia was captured since 2014. This discovery was made possible using remote-sensing cameras, commonly known as camera traps. These cameras, placed strategically within the forest, are autonomously triggered by motion, capturing images or videos when an animal passes by, acting as silent, watchful eyes. Why is the discovery of Eurasian otters important? The Chief Conservator of Forests, Datuk Frederick Kugan. The Chief Conservator of Forests, Datuk Frederick Kugan, pointed out that this discovery is particularly significant because Tangkulap Forest Reserve now holds the unique distinction of being the only location in Malaysia where all four of the country's otter species coexist. This information will enhance the protection of Tangkulap as a Class I forest reserve. This 27,258 ha forest is managed by the Deramakot District Forestry Officer, Johnny Kissing. The Eurasian otter is the most widely distributed otter of the 14 species in the world, ranging from Europe to Asia. However, its presence in the Southeast Asia region is largely unknown and extremely rare. Therefore, its local status in this region is highly endangered. Director of the Sabah Wildlife Department, Mohd Soffian bin Abu Bakar. This significant finding highlights the dedication to biodiversity conservation in Sabah. Mohd Soffian bin Abu Bakar, Director of the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD), affirms this commitment, stating, 'The SWD, in collaboration with the Sabah Forestry Department (SFD) and Panthera, is dedicated to the conservation of otter species in Sabah. Through joint monitoring efforts at the Tangkulap Forest Reserve, we aim to better understand otter populations and address their priority conservation needs. This work is essential to ensure the long-term protection of otters within our protected areas and to support broader biodiversity conservation goals in Sabah.' Panthera Malaysia project coordinator, Tee Thye Lim. 'The challenges of studying aquatic habitats like freshwater swamps are immense, yet essential for understanding the ecological roles of wildlife communities,' remarked Thye Lim, project coordinator for Panthera Malaysia. 'Despite losing over 30 camera traps to flash floods while pursuing the elusive flat-headed cat, we have made significant progress. Not only did we successfully detect the cat, but we also confirmed the presence of the Eurasian otter after an 11-year absence from documented sightings outside of Danum Valley. This discovery highlights the diverse species that depend on these critical freshwater ecosystems, and our team is eager to further explore their intricate relationships.' 'It is exciting to hear about this recent discovery of the Eurasian otter in Sabah as studying otters are challenging and always goes underrepresented in many natural history-related research in Malaysia,' said Professor Dr. Mohd Azlan Jayasilan bin Abdul Gulam Azad, from the Institute Of Biodiversity And Environmental Conservation, UNIMAS, Chairman of the Malaysia Otter Network (MON) and a member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Otter Specialist Group. He highlighted the need to confirm the presence of the Eurasian otter in other parts of Malaysia by conducting more surveys and research. 'There is a need to focus on understanding the habitat requirement and niche overlap of these species, particularly the Eurasian otter.' The mysterious Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) was detected in Tangkulap Forest Reserve, with the last confirmed sighting reported in 2014 near the Danum Valley Field Centre in Sabah. A group of small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus). The presence of all four otter species within this landscape is a crucial indicator of the health of the aquatic ecosystem. In ecological terms, otters are apex predators within this environment, and their well-being is intrinsically linked to the overall health of their surroundings. For example, the recent return of otters to the Klang River, following The Ocean Cleanup initiative's removal of over 3.2 million kilograms of trash, demonstrates how improved water quality directly benefits these species. Otters are known for their sensitivity to environmental changes. Pollution, habitat fragmentation, and overfishing pose significant threats to their survival. Therefore, their confirmed presence in the Tangkulap Forest Reserve, as captured by the vigilant camera traps, is a positive sign, suggesting that the reserve's aquatic system remains relatively healthy. The rare and endangered hairy-nosed otter (Lutra sumatrana) deposits its spraint on the tree. The recent discovery serves as a crucial reminder of the need to safeguard our precious water resources, as the health of our aquatic ecosystem directly impacts community well-being. To ensure this, we must prioritize the protection and enhancement of otter habitats by identifying critical areas and restoring degraded swamp forests with native vegetation. Implementing buffer zone management around the Tangkulap Forest Reserve is also essential to mitigate external impacts through sustainable land-use practices and controlling harmful human activities. Finally, establishing a long-term monitoring and research program will be vital to assess these habitats, understand their ecological needs, and evaluate the effectiveness of our conservation efforts. Smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata). 'Otters are semi-aquatic mammals that play a huge role in the freshwater ecosystem. Not only do they indicate the health of the ecosystem, but they are also the top predator in the food chain. The discovery of the fourth species of otter in the Tangkulap Forest Reserve indicates that the habitat is abundant in prey species and serves as a safe refuge for four species of otters, potentially for many other wildlife species as well. Hence, it is essential to conserve these species because of habitat fragmentation. Malaysia Otter Network (MON) was established to bring together a group of agencies, researchers, and conservationists to conserve Malaysian otters through multidisciplinary and holistic approaches,' said Chee Yoong from the MON and the IUCN SSC Otter Specialist Group. What are next steps for the Eurasian otter in Malaysia? Otter Species Manager at Sabah Wildlife Department, Siti Nur'ain Ampuan Acheh. The Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD), as a member and in collaboration with MON, will take a significant step towards otter conservation by planning a Human-Otter Conflict Workshop and developing the National Otter Action Plan this year in Sabah. This initiative aims to address the growing challenges of human-otter conflicts by finding practical solutions that balance conservation efforts with human needs. Setting up a remote-sensing camera trap in Tangkulap Forest Reserve by Panthera Malaysia staff. The workshop will also serve as a crucial platform for experts, stakeholders, and policymakers to discuss key issues, close critical information gaps, and develop actionable strategies for otter conservation in Malaysia. Siti Nur'ain Ampuan Acheh, Otter Species Manager at SWD and a member of the MON and IUCN SSC Otter Specialist Group stated, 'Through this effort, MON and SWD are reinforcing their commitment to otter protection while fostering coexistence between people and otters, especially with Sabah being home to four otter species in a single site — a rare and significant conservation opportunity'. Article contributed by Panthera Malaysia, Sabah Forestry Department and Sabah Wildlife Department
Indian Express
11 hours ago
- General
- Indian Express
In a first, blue sheep at the Himalayan Nature Park in Kufri gives birth to offspring
The Himalayan Nature Park in Kufri, about 18 km from Shimla, has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the successful breeding of the blue sheep, locally known as bharal (Pseudois nayaur), for the first time on Saturday. The Park authorities are yet to ascertain the gender of the newly born lamb. In a collaborative effort with the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling, the park received three bharals under a wildlife exchange programme in 2023. These animals were quarantined and acclimatised to their new environment before being introduced into their designated enclosures. 'The successful breeding of the bharal is a testament to the park's effective conservation strategies. Bharals are vital to the Himalayan ecosystem, serving as a primary prey species for the endangered snow leopard. Maintaining a healthy population of bharals is crucial for the survival of these apex predators. The park's breeding programme aligns with broader conservation efforts in the region,' Shahnawaz Ahmed Bhat, Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), said. He added that these initiatives aim to ensure the long-term viability of the species and their role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Himalayas. The gestation period of a female blue sheep is approximately 150 to 160 days, and a female typically gives birth to a single lamb, usually between May and early July. Building on the success of the bharal breeding programme, the park plans to expand its conservation efforts by introducing additional species and enhancing its educational outreach. Although the blue sheep is categorized as 'Least Concern' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the population faces threats such as poaching for meat and competition with livestock. However, poaching is relatively uncommon due to the inhospitable nature of the bharal's habitat. Similarly, livestock seldom venture into the mountainous regions where bharals are found, and even when they do coexist, no significant detrimental impact on the bharal population has been observed. A senior officer said, 'The introduction of bharals to the Himalayan Nature Park enhances its appeal as an ecotourism destination. Visitors now have the opportunity to observe these elusive animals in an environment that closely mirrors their natural habitat.' Situated at an altitude of over 2,600 metres, the Himalayan Nature Park spans 13.73 hectares of temperate vegetation, providing a natural habitat for various high-altitude species. The park's ecosystem — characterised by deodar, fir, spruce, and oak forests — offers an ideal environment for the bharal, which thrives in the region's rugged terrain. The park's serene environment, coupled with its diverse wildlife, offers an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts and contributes to the region's sustainable tourism initiatives. Through continued collaboration with national and international wildlife bodies, the Himalayan Nature Park aims to play a pivotal role in preserving the unique biodiversity of the Western Himalayas.
Miami Herald
21 hours ago
- Science
- Miami Herald
Rare scaly creatures — one pregnant — seen for first time in east India forest
In the hills of eastern India, in a region carved by deep river valleys and dense rainforests, two scaly creatures slept perched on different branches of the same tree. To the surprise of the researchers surveying the forest, they had stumbled upon two Calotes zolaiking, a species of mountain lizard previously only known from Mizoram, a state about 120 miles west, according to a May 30 study published in the peer-reviewed journal Zootaxa. The sighting marks the first time the species has been recorded outside of the region where it was first discovered in 2019, researchers said. One of the two lizards was a pregnant female, according to the study. This finding sheds light on the reproductive cycles of the species and indicates it breeds during pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, researchers said. Calotes zolaiking are about 5 inches long and their bodies are various shades of green with dark patches throughout. They are 'strongly keeled,' meaning each of the lizard's long scales has a ridge in the middle, giving it a sharper overall appearance, according to the study. Because the rainforests of Meghalaya are connected to the hills of Mizoram by other forests, the species may have 'continuous distribution throughout and around' this whole region, researchers said. Meghalaya is part of the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot, and the region holds a large number of endemic species, or species found nowhere else in the world, according to the study. It ranks as one of the most vital and irreplaceable hotspots worldwide., according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. It is also one of the top five most threatened hotspots due to human-related pressures. More people live in this hotspot than any other in the world, according to the group. Researchers said continuous and comprehensive surveys of the contiguous forests are necessary in light of increasing habitat loss. Meghalaya includes the East Khasi Hills District near the border of Bangladesh. The research team included Sanath Chandra Bohra, Chunglallian Ranglong, Goldenstar Thongni, Banyllashisha Wankhar, Cynthia Mylliem Umlong, Madhurima Das, Holiness Warjri, and Jayaditya Purkayastha.
Yahoo
a day ago
- General
- Yahoo
Prehistoric creature known for its distinct appearance makes remarkable comeback: 'Huge territory'
Saiga antelope — known for their distinctive large snouts — have had a turbulent existence on this planet. They once walked the Earth alongside woolly rhinos and mammoths; early humans painted them in rock art 19,000 years ago. But within just the last 100 years, due to overhunting and climate-exacerbated disease outbreaks, their population has plunged to a fraction of their earlier numbers. Fortunately, dedicated conservation efforts have allowed the saiga population to stabilize and rebound, CNN reported. The saiga once were found everywhere from Canada to France; today, they live only in Kazakhstan, with some small populations in Uzbekistan, Russia, and Mongolia. Their numbers were decimated by hunting in the mid-20th century, when both Chinese and Soviet poachers killed them for their meat, hides, and horns. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, this resulted in approximately 150,000 antelope killed each year in the 1950s and '60s, and the species was labeled as critically endangered in 2002. To save the beloved species, Kazakhstan's government banned hunting the saiga in 1999, implementing education and training to help border guards crack down on poachers and smuggling. Additionally, the country's Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative was founded in 2006 in order to help conserve the wildlife of the Kazakh steppe, including saiga antelope. Since then, it has been able to secure an area the size of Denmark in protected land. Daniyar Turgambayev, chair of the forestry and wildlife committee at Kazakhstan's Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, told CNN that the government was committed to increasing that area by designating up to 30% of the country as a protected area for wildlife. "Naturally, given that Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world, this is a huge territory," he said. Between the hunting bans, the crackdown on poaching, and the conservation efforts, there has been a dramatic rebound in the saiga's population, up from 21,000 in Kazakhstan in 2003 to 2.8 million in 2024. The species' threat level has been downgraded to "near threatened" on the IUCN Red List. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Saiga are still susceptible to disease, however. Four major outbreaks have slashed their numbers in the last 15 years, including in 2015 when over half the global population died in a span of three weeks. IUCN specified that this bacterial infection was likely triggered by warmer-than-usual temperatures during calving season. Considering that temperatures aren't on track to drop anytime soon, groups like Altyn Dala are hoping to keep saiga safe by regularly monitoring for disease outbreaks. Because of their prolific birthing rate — 60% of saiga give birth to twins — the species is able to rebound quickly. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Miami Herald
a day ago
- General
- Miami Herald
‘Rarely seen' bottom-dwelling sea creature washes up on beach in Australia
A 'rarely seen' marine creature — nearly 6 feet long — washed up on a beach in northern Australia, attracting the attention of wildlife enthusiasts. Rhynchobatus australiae, commonly known as a bottlenose wedgefish, was found stranded on Casuarina Beach in the Casuarina Coastal Reserve, according to a May 29 news release from Australia's Northern Territory Government. Officials said the 'distinctive' bottom-dweller is known for it's wide wedge-shaped snout and is typically found at depths of about 200 feet. 'They don't often wash up on beaches, making sightings extremely rare,' officials said. The wedgefish was dead with no signs of injury, according to the release. Researchers from the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory collected data and a tissue sample, which will be used to analyze 'the species' genetic makeup and population diversity,' officials said. The species is listed as 'critically endangered' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Wildlife officials said the species is targeted for their fins that are highly valuable in the international fin trade. Casuarina Beach is in Australia's Northern Territory.
