Context:
1st ever IUCN Assessment of the Himalayan Wolf published.
Key Findings:
- Declining Population: IUCN’s assessment has flagged a ‘continuing decline in area, extent and/or quality of habitat’ of Himalayan wolves.
- Estimated total population of 2,275–3,792 (227–378 in India) mature individuals.
- Major threats –
- Depredation Conflict: This happens when changes to the environment and reduction in the number of wild animals lead to conflicts.
- Hybridization with Dogs: This is a particular issue in places like Ladakh and Spiti where the number of stray dogs is growing.
- Illegal Hunting: This involves hunting for the purpose of selling its fur and body parts such as paws, tongues, and heads.
Himalayan Wolf (Tibetan wolves):
- Habitation – Nepal, India and the Tibetan Plateau (High altitude regions)
- Possess genetic adaptations to cope with hypoxic (low oxygen) conditions.
- Characteristics –
- Thick Fur: It has dense fur that is brown on the back and tail, and lighter yellow on the face, legs, and belly.
- Size: Bigger than Indian and European wolves.
- Prey Preference: It prefers to hunt wild animals rather than domestic ones.
- Protection Status –
- IUCN’s Red List: Vulnerable
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
- CITES: Appendix I
Source: Down to Earth
Previous Year Question
Consider the following fauna:
1. Lion-tailed Macaque
2. Malabar Civet
3. Sambar Deer
How many of the above are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2023 Prelims]
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Lion-tailed Macaque is a diurnal species. Malabar Civet is a nocturnal and elusive animal. Sambar Deer are quite elusive and are most active at dusk and at night.
