• UGI USER
  • Mar 04, 2024
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UNRESTRAINED POACHING PLAYS BIG ROLE IN DECLINE OF ODISHA’S LEOPARDS

Why in the news?

  • The recent ‘Status of Leopards India’ report unveils a grim scenario, estimating Odisha’s leopard population at 568, a sharp drop from the previous estimate of 760.
  • Despite a notable increase in leopard densities within tiger reserves, the overall population decline is concerning, highlighting the limited success of conservation efforts beyond protected areas.
source:slideserve

Highlighting Poaching and Habitat Loss:

  • Poaching threatens Odisha’s leopards, targeting prey for bush meat and illegal trade of skins.
  • Habitat loss from mining and human activity worsens the situation.
  • Road accidents also contribute to leopard fatalities.
  • Seizures show 116 leopards killed for skins (2018-2024), highlighting the need for urgent action.
About Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary Odisha:

Location:

●   Situated: Bargarh district, Odisha, near Hirakud dam (Mahanadi River).

●   Area: Covers 346.91 sq km.

●   Declaration: Wildlife sanctuary on 8th Feb 1985.

●   Significance: Key for in situ wildlife and habitat conservation in Odisha.

Biodiversity:

●   Flora: Dry deciduous forests.

●   Fauna: Includes Indian leopard, four-horned antelope, Indian elephant, sambar, chital, gaur.

Major Protected Areas in Odisha:

●   National Parks: Bhitarkanika, Simlipal.

●   Wildlife Sanctuaries: Badrama, Chilika, Hadgarh, Baisipalli, Kotagarh, Nandankanan, Lakhari Valley, Gahirmatha (Marine).