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Daily News Analysis

4-HORNED ANTELOPE

12th June, 2024 Environment

4-HORNED ANTELOPE

Source: FREEPRESSJOURNAL.IN

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Context

  • The sighting of the rare four-horned antelope in Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve marks the first recorded presence of this species in the region, indicating its adaptability to dry areas.
  • The successful adaptation of translocated tigers and the sighting of barking deer demonstrate the rich biodiversity of the reserve and the effectiveness of conservation efforts in Madhya Pradesh.

Details

Key Points

  • Four-Horned Antelope:
    • The four-horned antelope, found mostly in India and Nepal, is classified as 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List with an estimated population of 10,000. Only males have four horns.
  • Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve:
    • Formerly known as Nauradehi Sanctuary, this reserve has recently recorded the presence of the four-horned antelope and barking deer, indicating its diverse wildlife.
  • Tiger Translocation Success:
    • Two tigers translocated from Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve to Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve have adapted well, contributing to the current population of 18 tigers, including cubs.

About Pench Tiger Reserve:

Location:

  • Pench Tiger Reserve is located in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, named after the Pench River which flows through the park.

Biodiversity:

  • It is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and various species of deer and birds.

Historical Significance:

  • The reserve inspired Rudyard Kipling's famous work, "The Jungle Book."

About Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

Location:

  • Situated in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is known for having one of the highest densities of tigers in India.

Historical Sites:

  • The reserve is named after an ancient fort located within its boundaries and has significant historical and archaeological importance.

Wildlife:

  • Apart from tigers, it hosts a variety of species including leopards, deer, and numerous bird species.

About Kanha Tiger Reserve

Location:

  • Kanha Tiger Reserve is located in Madhya Pradesh, covering the Maikal Hills of the Satpura Range.

Biodiversity:

  • Known for its significant tiger population, the reserve also houses barasingha, leopards, and numerous bird species.

Conservation Efforts:

  • It was one of the first reserves to be part of Project Tiger, aimed at tiger conservation in India.

About Sanjay Tiger Reserve

Location:

  • Sanjay Tiger Reserve spans across Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Flora and Fauna:

  • It is rich in biodiversity, supporting species like tigers, leopards, elephants, and various types of flora.

Habitat:

  • The reserve features a mix of moist deciduous forests and grasslands, providing an ideal habitat for diverse wildlife.

Sources:

FREEPRESSJOURNAL.IN

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following tiger reserves is known for having one of the highest densities of tigers in India?

a) Pench Tiger Reserve

b) Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve

c) Kanha Tiger Reserve

d) Sanjay Tiger Reserve

Answer: b)