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Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: Creating Thrilling Wildlife Encounters in Odisha's Heartland!

In a remarkable conservation effort, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha has embarked on a mission to provide guaranteed wildlife encounters within the next two years. This initiative aims to transform the sanctuary into a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists seeking thrilling wildlife experiences. With a meticulously planned strategy implemented by the Hirakud Wildlife Division, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary has widened the paths for animal movement, ensuring increased opportunities for wildlife sightings. Visitors will have the chance to encounter a diverse range of species, including leopards, bison, wild dogs, sambhar, and even the majestic tiger. The sanctuary has witnessed a surge in leopard sightings this winter, along with frequent encounters with bison, spotted deer, peacocks, and bears. Notably, the Indian Greywolf and Wilddogs (also known as Dhole) have reappeared in the sanctuary after a seven-year absence. This resurgence in carnivore populations indicates a thriving prey base within the sanctuary. The success of this project can be attributed to the relocation of nearly 1,000 people from 400 families living within the sanctuary's boundaries. This step aimed to minimize human-animal conflicts and create unobstructed pathways for wildlife movement. Additionally, the local community has actively joined hands with forest officials to protect the sanctuary's flora and fauna. By engaging in wildlife monitoring, curbing poaching activities, and promoting eco-friendly practices, the local community has played a crucial role in safeguarding the sanctuary's natural treasures. Confidence-building programs and awareness campaigns have further strengthened their commitment to conservation. The positive impact of these measures was demonstrated when a sub-adult male tiger named Deb-1 entered the sanctuary from the Udanti Sitanadi tiger reserve in Chhattisgarh. Since then, Deb-1 has been spotted multiple times, delighting visitors and confirming the sanctuary's growing reputation as a wildlife haven. As Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary continues its conservation efforts and community engagement, it strives to offer an unparalleled opportunity for nature lovers to witness breathtaking 'wild encounters' in the heart of Odisha's natural wonders.

28 Dec 2023
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Good News

Rare Nocturnal Parrot, the 'Holy Grail of Ornithology,' Spotted and Recorded by Rangers in Remote Desert!

In a remarkable breakthrough for ornithology, rangers working in a remote desert have recorded the distinct calls of the elusive night parrot. Considered the "Holy Grail of Ornithology," this nocturnal bird has long evaded researchers and conservationists alike. The Kiwirrkurra traditional owners, who are leading the conservation efforts, successfully captured the calls of the night parrot in the Gibson Desert of Western Australia. The recordings provide valuable data for scientists studying the species and aid in identifying suitable habitats for conservation. The night parrot, a ground-dwelling bird known for its unique flying abilities, primarily communicates within spinifex bushes after sunset. However, its population has been significantly threatened by feral cats and fires, leaving it critically endangered. The Kiwirrkurra ranger team, becoming the fifth group to record the calls, expressed their excitement and the positive implications of the discovery. Ranger coordinator Ed Blackwood emphasized that the presence of the night parrot indicates an ecosystem conducive to the survival of various other animals. Dr. Nick Leseberg, a night parrot expert at the University of Queensland, hailed the recording as a significant extension of the species' known range. Each new piece of data collected contributes to a better understanding of the bird's habitat and aids in formulating targeted conservation measures. The night parrot's calls hold cultural importance for the indigenous community, evoking cherished childhood memories and dispelling fears of evil spirits. The Kiwirrkurra now proudly serve as stewards for four endangered species, including the night parrot, the great desert skink, the bilby, and the princess parrot.

22 Dec 2023
Good News

From Extinct to Endangered: Scimitar-Horned Oryx Upgraded from 'Extinct in the Wild' to Endangered Thanks to Zoo Work

In a groundbreaking conservation achievement, the scimitar-horned oryx has been upgraded from "Extinct in the Wild" to "Endangered" by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This remarkable development marks the first time a species has ever been moved from the former category to the latter on the IUCN Red List. Decades of dedicated work by zoos worldwide, alongside the collaborative efforts of governments and organizations, have led to this momentous milestone. The scimitar-horned oryx, once declared extinct in the wild, has been given a new lease on life. The journey towards this success began with the partnership between Environment Abu Dhabi, the government of Chad, the Sahara Conservation Fund, and the Zoological Society of London. Through their combined efforts, local landowners and nomadic herders were enlisted to support the reintroduction of the scimitar-horned oryx to the Ouadi Rimé-Ouadi Achim Faunal Reserve in Chad. Starting in 2016, captive animals from zoos and private collections around the world were brought together to ensure genetic diversity. The first release took place within a fenced-off section of the reserve, allowing the oryx to acclimate to their once-native habitat. Over the years, the population has grown, with the recent assessment estimating between 140 and 160 individuals. This extraordinary achievement highlights the potential of zoological conservation efforts and international collaboration. It demonstrates that with suitable habitats and collective dedication, endangered and even extinct species can be brought back from the brink. The successful reclassification of the scimitar-horned oryx serves as a beacon of hope for future conservation endeavors.

16 Dec 2023
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