The news has recently drawn attention to a fascinating development in biodiversity. For the first time, a Himalayan serow – a unique creature with similarities to a goat, donkey, cow and pig – was spotted in the chilly desert region of Spiti, Himachal Pradesh. This sighting near Hurling village is particularly notable because serows are not usually found at such altitudes. Spiti’s average elevation is a staggering 4,270 metres above sea level. Prior to this, sightings had been made through camera traps or in Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary and Chamba’s upper reaches.
Description and Physical Features of the Himalayan Serow
The Himalayan serow (scientific name: Capricornis sumatraensis thar) can be described as a medium-sized mammal. It boasts a large head, a thick neck, short limbs, long mule-like ears, and a coat of dark hair. This intriguing animal is actually a subspecies of the mainland serow (Capricornis sumatraensis).
Habitat and Diet
Serows are usually found across eastern, central, and western Himalayas, typically at altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 metres. However, they aren’t known to inhabit the Trans-Himalayan region that includes the Karakoram, Ladakh, Zaskar, and Kailash mountain ranges. As far as their diet is concerned, Himalayan serows are herbivores.
Conservation Status and Legislative Protection
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the Himalayan serow as ‘Vulnerable.’ Moreover, it’s featured in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and Schedule I of The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Overview of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 ensures safety for listed species of animals, birds, and plants. It establishes a network of ecologically important protected areas across India and prohibits hunting of endangered species. The Act stipulates the creation of wildlife advisory boards and wardens, outlining their responsibilities and powers.
Licenses are also provided for the sale, transfer, and possession of specific wildlife species. Crucially, this Act led to the establishment of the Central Zoo Authority in 1992, which oversees zoos throughout India.
Wildlife Protection Act Schedules and National Board for Wildlife
The Wildlife Protection Act divides protection levels into six schedules with Schedule I and II (Part II) offering absolute protection. Violations under these schedules carry the maximum penalties. Some species that may be hunted are also included in the schedules.
The National Board for Wildlife, chaired by the Prime Minister, is a statutory body setup under this Act. Serving as an advisory board, it offers the central government advice on wildlife conservation issues across India. It’s also the apex body for reviewing and approving matters related to national parks, sanctuaries and other wildlife areas. The board primarily works towards the conservation and development of wildlife and forests.