CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
Rajasthan’s Forest Minister, Sanjay Sharma, recently confirmed the first photographic evidence of a caracal in Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve. This rare sighting highlights ongoing conservation initiatives in the region. Classified as an endangered species, the caracal’s population in India is estimated to be fewer than 50 individuals. The discovery was made during the Winter Phase IV survey conducted in the reserve.
Caracal: An Overview
The caracal is a nocturnal wild cat found across Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia. Its name originates from the Turkish term ‘karakulak,’ which translates to ‘black ears’ a distinctive trait of this species. Caracals are renowned for their agility and ability to leap great distances, making them skilled hunters. Their diet mainly consists of small ungulates and rodents.
Historical Significance
Caracals have been part of India’s wildlife heritage for centuries. Ancient texts like Khamsa-e-Nizami and Shahnameh mention these cats, underscoring their historical role in hunting traditions. Historically, they inhabited 13 Indian states across diverse ecological zones.
Declining Population
Over the years, the caracal population in India has significantly diminished. Their numbers were halved between pre-Independence and 2000, followed by a staggering 95% decline from 2001 to 2020. Currently, caracals are restricted to a mere 16,709 square kilometers, a fraction of their former range.
Conservation Status
In 2021, the National Board for Wildlife and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change declared the caracal as a critically endangered species in India. Their decline is primarily driven by habitat loss due to urban expansion and illegal wildlife trade.
Habitat And Ecology
Caracals are commonly found in the Chambal ravines, regions often labeled as wastelands. This classification poses challenges for conservation efforts and habitat restoration. Their sharp senses, particularly their tufted ears, play a crucial role in hunting, communication, and regulating body temperature.
Threats To Survival
Caracals face numerous threats, including habitat destruction and poaching. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categorizes them as a vulnerable species, indicating continued population decline. Urgent conservation measures are needed to ensure their survival in the wild.
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