The first-ever IUCN assessment of the Himalayan Wolf is out. And it is grim
- January 13, 2024
- Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
- Category: DPN Topics
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The first-ever IUCN assessment of the Himalayan Wolf is out. And it is grim
Subject : Environment
Section: Species in news
About Himalayan Wolf:
- The Himalayan wolf, scientifically known as Canis lupus chanco, is a canine with uncertain taxonomy, characterized by distinctive genetic markers.
- Its mitochondrial DNA suggests it is genetically primitive compared to the Holarctic grey wolf and is genetically identical to the Tibetan and Mongolian wolves, with connections to the African wolf.
- Although there are no significant morphological differences between Himalayan and Tibetan wolves, the former are adapted to high-altitude environments above 4,000 meters.
- The Himalayan wolf’s distribution includes the Himalayan range and the Tibetan Plateau.
- Wolves in India and Nepal are endangered, listed on CITES Appendix I due to international trade.
Assessment of Himalayan Wolf:
- They have been evaluated for the first time on the IUCN Red List and are now classified as ‘Vulnerable.’
- The assessment estimates a population size of 2,275-3,792 mature individuals in a single subpopulation across Nepal, India, and the Tibetan Plateau.
- The continuous decline in the population is attributed to significant threats and a lack of conservation efforts.
- In India, there are 227-378 mature individuals in the Himalayan region, with potential additional presence in Uttarakhand and Sikkim states.
Causes of decline:
- The Himalayan Wolf is identified as a genetically unique species in a 2018 study.
- The assessment notes a continuing decline in the habitat of these wolves, primarily due to depredation conflicts, habitat modification, and illegal hunting for trade.
- Hybridization with feral dogs poses a growing threat in Ladakh and Spiti.
- The assessment recommends measures such as securing prey populations, implementing effective livestock guarding methods, managing feral dog populations, and fostering transboundary conservation efforts.
- Additionally, it calls for incorporating the Himalayan Wolf into conservation programs to enhance public acceptance and reduce persecution.
Source: DTE