• UGI USER
  • Jun 28, 2024
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RARE SIGHTING OF MAINLAND SEROW IN ASSAM

Why in the news?

  • The mainland serow, typically found in Bhutan, has been spotted at a record low altitude in western Assam, marking its first appearance near human settlements.
  • A team of scientists documented a lone mainland serow at just 96 meters above sea level in Raimona National Park.
  • This marks a significant expansion of its known habitat beyond its usual range in Bhutan.
 Source: KBK

About Mainland Serow

  • Description: Resembles a blend of goat and antelope, inhabiting altitudes from 200 to 3,000 meters.
  • Native Habitat: Found in Himalayas, Southeast Asia, and China; Bhutan serves as its natural home.

Characteristics

  • Size and Weight: Stands about three feet tall at the shoulder, weighing around 200 lbs.
  • Fur and Horns: Possesses bristly guard hairs and light-colored horns up to six inches long, curved towards the back (males only).

Behaviour

  • Social Structure: Solitary or small group dwellers; females give birth to a single offspring after an eight-month gestation period.

Conservation Status

  • IUCN Status: Vulnerable
  • CITES Listing: Appendix I

Prominent Habitat in India

  • Found in Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and Royal Manas National Park, primarily across the border in Bhutan.