Researchers recently made an exciting discovery in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, uncovering a rare leucistic sambar deer. Sambar deer, native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, are known for their elusive nature and nocturnal habits. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems by dispersing seeds. However, hunting and habitat encroachment pose significant threats to their survival. The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, spanning three Karnataka districts, serves as a critical link between various conservation areas and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and more.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Leucistic: Leucism is a genetic condition that causes partial loss of pigmentation in animals, resulting in white or pale-colored patches on the skin, fur, or feathers. It differs from albinism, where there is a complete absence of pigmentation.
- Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located in Karnataka, India, and serves as a vital ecological corridor between several protected areas. It is characterized by a variety of forest types and is traversed by the Cauvery, Arkavathi, and Shimsha rivers.
- IUCN: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global organization that assesses the conservation status of species and publishes the IUCN Red List, which categorizes species into various threat levels, such as “Vulnerable,” as in the case of sambar deer.
- Habitat Encroachment: Habitat encroachment refers to the intrusion of human activities, such as agriculture, infrastructure development, or urbanization, into natural habitats, often resulting in habitat loss and degradation.
- Nocturnal Activity Pattern: Many animals, including sambar deer, exhibit a nocturnal activity pattern, which means they are most active during the night. This behavior can be an adaptation to avoid predators or human hunting during the day.
