Swamp Deer
Source: News On Air
GS III: Environment
Overview
- News in Brief
- Swamp Deer
Why in the News?
Manas National Park & Tiger Reserve on October 2, 2023 announced that the population of swamp deer at the park has witnessed a rise.
About Swamp Deer
- The barasingha, scientifically known as Rucervus duvaucelii, is a deer species native to the Indian subcontinent.
- This deer belongs to the Cervidae family within the Artiodactyla order and is typically found in the open woodlands and grasslands of India and Nepal.
- Its primary diet consists of wetland plants and herbaceous vegetation that are abundant in its natural habitat.
- Unfortunately, the population of the barasingha has become limited and scattered, with remaining populations primarily found in isolated regions of Nepal, Assam, and northern India.
- It is regrettable that this species has gone extinct in both Bangladesh and Pakistan.
- Within the Indian Subcontinent, there are three subspecies of the barasingha, each with its own habitat:
- The western swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii), located in Nepal.
- The southern swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii branderi), inhabiting central and northern India.
- The eastern swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii ranjitsinhi), found in the Kaziranga and Dudhwa National Parks.
Manas National Park
- Manas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a wildlife sanctuary located in the northeastern state of Assam, India.
- It is known for its rich biodiversity and is one of the Project Tiger reserves in India.
- Overall, Manas National Park is a significant conservation area in India, known for its exceptional biodiversity and natural beauty.
- It serves as an essential site for the protection of endangered species and plays a crucial role in the conservation of the Eastern Himalayan ecosystem.
About Manas National Park
- Location
- Manas National Park is situated in the western part of Assam, bordering Bhutan to the north.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
- It was recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and significant biodiversity.
- River Manas
- The park is named after the Manas River, which flows through it.
- The river is a major tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
- Flora
- Manas National Park is characterized by diverse vegetation types, including tropical evergreen forests, deciduous forests, and grasslands.
- It is home to a wide variety of plant species.
- Fauna
- The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife.
- It is home to several endangered and rare species, including the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, Indian elephant, clouded leopard, and pygmy hog.
- Birdlife
- Manas is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 450 species of birds recorded in the park.
- It is an important area for bird conservation.
- Biodiversity
- Manas National Park is recognized for its high biodiversity.
- It is part of the Eastern Himalayas, which is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
- Tribal Communities
- The park is inhabited by various indigenous communities, including the Bodo people.
- Efforts have been made to involve local communities in conservation and eco-tourism activities.
- Conservation
- Manas faced significant challenges due to poaching and political unrest in the region.
- However, conservation efforts, including the restoration of the park’s World Heritage status, have contributed to its protection.
- Transboundary Conservation
- Manas National Park is part of the Manas Conservation Area, which includes the Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan.
- Together, they form a transboundary protected area aimed at conserving biodiversity.
- Tourism
- The park attracts tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
- It offers opportunities for safaris and eco-tourism activities.
- Challenges
- Manas National Park faces challenges such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts.
- Conservation organizations and the government are working to address these issues.
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