Conservation Round-up
Saevus|March - May 2017

Updates from the world of conservation between Nov 2016 and mid Feb 2017.

Dipankar Ghose
Conservation Round-up

“The tiger is India’s soul, you can’t lose it” – were the words of legendary conservationist and wildlife biologist, Dr. George Schaller in India during onset of 2017. However, tigers in India did not do too well in 2016 as a total of 98 tiger deaths were reported in that year. This was the highest in the last five years as 72 tigers died in 2012, 63 in 2013, 66 in 2014 and 69 in 2015. India, with more than 60 per cent of the world’s wild tigers, is also the most vulnerable country as far as tiger poaching is concerned. Out of the 98 tiger deaths last year, the cause of death was not ascertained in more than half. Approximately one third of those are suspected to be result of poaching. What was worrying is that a domestic market for consumption of tiger parts emerged in the later part of 2016. Few people were arrested from different parts of Madhya Pradesh during 2016, who were allegedly involved in poaching of at least two tigers. Paws of those poached tigers were cut off to be used in black magic, with a false promise of raining currency notes!

Illegal wildlife trade in live animals was unearthed recently. Three wildlife traders were caught in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh with five live caracals and one serval. They were being transported in a swanky SUV and the meticulous planning of transporting those animals from Bihar to Hyderabad indicates involvement of large syndicates in the illegal trade. Live bird trade is still thriving in the country and it will be worrying if the emerging domestic markets report a demand in live wild cat trade.

This story is from the March - May 2017 edition of Saevus.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the March - May 2017 edition of Saevus.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM SAEVUSView All
Staying ALIVE!
Saevus

Staying ALIVE!

The importance of getting to the root causes of conflict with wildlife, is essential. Its mitigation will guarantee the very survival of all species.

time-read
8 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Frames from the WILD
Saevus

Frames from the WILD

A few amazing shots from a horde of incredible ones!

time-read
3 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
WAKE UP!
Saevus

WAKE UP!

A frightening thought a world without wildlife, mornings without birdsong, and all that we take for granted! We must realise the dangers threatening the beauteous green world and its inhabitants around us!

time-read
4 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Dolphin DILEMMA!
Saevus

Dolphin DILEMMA!

A crucial article to highlight the significance, and plight of Our riverine friends.

time-read
3 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Gecko Quest!
Saevus

Gecko Quest!

The authors take us on the trail of a gecko from West Bengal, through the hills of the Bankura district.

time-read
2 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Endangered EXOTICA!
Saevus

Endangered EXOTICA!

The author takes us on an exotic ride into the forests of Malaysia, allowing us glimpses of the beauties of its wildlife!

time-read
3 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Mellifluous Magpie!
Saevus

Mellifluous Magpie!

Immerse yourselves in the world of the musical and glorious Magpie Robin! The authors help acquaint us with this beautiful bird.

time-read
10+ mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Think Different!
Saevus

Think Different!

The author brings to us the very real concern for the horses employed around pilgrimage sites in India.

time-read
4 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Take Heed!
Saevus

Take Heed!

The authors make a case for the conservation of the rare and lesser-known Sociable Lapwing.

time-read
6 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24
Close Encounters!
Saevus

Close Encounters!

The author introduces us to two amazing yet very different bird species, showing us the diversity of our ecosystems,

time-read
4 mins  |
SAEVUS NOVEMBER 23 MARCH 24