New study proposes roadmap to conserve the clouded leopard | Mongabay
A recent study highlights critical gaps in habitat suitability, fragmentation, and connectivity for the clouded leopard, offering a conservation roadmap. It identifies 18 transboundary wildlife corridors vital for genetic diversity, emphasising cooperation, protected area expansion, and reintroduction programmes to safeguard the species and maintain forest ecosystem stability.
On the verge of vagrancy: What rare bird sightings mean | Down to Earth
Rare sightings of the Falcated Duck, Marbled Duck, and Baikal Teal at Sultanpur National Park raise questions about vagrancy and migration patterns. While the Falcated Duck is a regular winter visitor to India, its declining numbers suggest possible disruptions in migration. Factors like storms, navigation errors, or habitat loss can lead to vagrancy, posing survival challenges. Sultanpur's rich ecosystem offers crucial respite for migratory birds to refuel before continuing their journey.
Indigenous turtle-safe fishing devices help India tackle U.S. shrimp ban | Mongabay
India's indigenous Turtle Excluder Device (TED), approved by the U.S., raises hopes of lifting the five-year wild-caught shrimp export ban. Designed to prevent turtle bycatch without shrimp catch loss, the TED aligns with international standards. Awareness programmes and demonstrations are underway in 100 harbours to promote its adoption.
Over 1,000 whale sharks rescued and released off Kerala, Gujarat coasts in 20 years: WTI | The Indian Express
Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) rescued its 1,001st whale shark entangled in fishing nets under the 'Pan India Whale Shark Project' initiated in 2004. The project, supported by forest departments and fishing communities, began in Gujarat and expanded to Kerala in 2017. The latest rescue in Thiruvananthapuram highlights community collaboration and private partnerships.
ZSI Discovers New Pangolin Species In Arunachal Pradesh | Ukhrul Times
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) identified a new pangolin species, the Indo-Burmese pangolin (Manis indoburmanica), in Arunachal Pradesh. Genetic analysis revealed it diverged from the Chinese pangolin around 3.4 million years ago. Found at altitudes between 180-1830 meters, this species inhabits Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and possibly extends to Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. The discovery highlights the urgent need for pangolin conservation and habitat protection.