The African Swine Fever (ASF) has recently become a significant threat to an endangered species, the pygmy hogs according to an article published in the journal ‘Science’. As the world’s rarest and smallest pigs, their survival is critical. ASF has already caused extensive harm to porcine populations across Asia since it was first observed in China in 2018. First identified in Africa in the 1920s, ASF has spread across Africa, Asia, and Europe, affecting both domestic and wild pigs. Its mortality rate ranges between 95% and 100%, and in the absence of a cure, the only way to halt its spread is by culling the animals. It is also one of the diseases included in the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE)’s Terrestrial Animal Health Code.
About The Pygmy Hog: Characteristics And Habitat
Scientifically known as Porcula Salvania, the pygmy hog is a marvel in itself. One of the few mammals to build its own nest, complete with a ‘roof’, it is considered an indicator species. Its existence signals the health of the tall, wet grasslands it calls home.
Once upon a time, these hogs were found in a narrow strip of tall and wet grassland plains on the Himalayan foothills, spanning from Uttar Pradesh to Assam, including Nepal’s terai regions, Bhutan, and Bengal’s duars. Presently, they are found only in Assam, India.
Protection Status And Threats To Pygmy Hog
Listed as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List, the pygmy hog is also included in Appendix I of CITES. In India, it is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. However, despite all protection, their population is constantly threatened by loss and degradation of grassland habitats as well as illegal hunting activities.
Conservation Efforts: The Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme
Believed to be extinct, the pygmy hog was rediscovered in 1971. To conserve this unique species, many organizations came together to form the Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme in 1995. The initiative was lead by the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, UK, and was implemented in collaboration with the IUCN, Assam Forest Department and MoEF&CC.
As of now, it is managed by NGOs Aaranyak and EcoSystems India. Thanks to these efforts, 152 hogs have been reintroduced into four protected areas in Assam between 2008 and 2022. Furthermore, 36 individuals were recently released in Manas National Park. Between 2011 and 2015, more hogs were reintroduced into the Orang National Park. An ambitious plan aims to release up to 60 pygmy hogs in Manas National Park by 2025.
UPSC Civil Services Examinations Include Pygmy Hog-Related Questions
For aspirants of the UPSC Civil Services Examination, the topic of pygmy hogs has found a place in previous year questions, underscoring its significance in Indian biodiversity studies.
