Efforts on to protect endangered animals in NE

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Efforts on to protect endangered animals in NE

NEW DELHI, March 15 – Sensing threat to the endemic and endangered

animals in North East, efforts are being made for planned breeding of

these species to ensure that their numbers do not dwindle in the region.

 

" Breeding programmes are already under way in zoos in various North

East States. But it is for the first time that coordinated efforts

will be taken to ensure planned breeding in these zoos on scientific

basis, " B R Sharma, member secretary of Central Zoo Authority said.

 

A meeting of officials of State Forest departments, zoos in North East

and Central Zoo Authority would be held soon to chalk out a strategy

to ensure breeding of endangered and local animals in a planned manner

in nine zoos across the States in the region.

 

Sharma said Sariska-like situation might repeat in the North East if

adequate steps were not taken in this regard.

 

It has become a matter of great concern that wildlife species such as

Capped Langoor, Golden Langoor, Hoolock gibbon – the only ape found in

rainforests of Arunanchal Pradesh, Assam and parts of Nagaland –

one-horned rhinoceros, clouded leopards in North East are under

threat, he added.

 

Since they are endemic species found only on a particular geographical

region because of its isolation, soil and climatic conditions, efforts

will be taken that their habitat is not disturbed.

 

Sharma explained that absence of " particular requirement for the

breeding of that particular species " results into the extinction of

that animal.

 

The programme is aimed to get an idea of populations, analyse their

behavioural and migration patterns and feeding habits...this will help

in conserving the animals in their natural surroundings, " Sharma said.

 

For instance, he added, though in Delhi Zoo, Manipuri deer have been

able to breed, it is yet not certain whether they have properly

adjusted with the environment.

 

" If required, we would send all the Manipuri deers back to their

original habitats to ensure that they are saved from extinction, "

Sharma said. – PTI