Context:
In a significant discovery, the hog deer has been spotted for the first time at the Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
Relevance:
GS III: Environment and Ecology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Hog Deer: Overview and Distribution
- Rajaji Tiger Reserve: Key Features
Hog Deer: Overview and Distribution
Behavior and Social Structure
- Typically a solitary creature, occasionally seen in small groups during abundant food conditions.
- Primarily sedentary, displaying minimal migration patterns.
- Males exhibit territorial behavior, marking their area with glandular secretions.
- Sexual dimorphism is evident, with females being slightly smaller and lacking antlers.
Geographic Range
- Native to India, including the Himalayan foothill zone and Southeast Asia (Burma and Thailand).
- Introduced by humans to Sri Lanka, Australia, and the United States (Texas, Florida, Hawaii).
Habitat Preferences
- Generally found in dense forests but observed in clearings, grasslands, and wet grasslands.
- Habitat choice influenced by seasonal variations and food distribution.
Conservation Status
- IUCN: Endangered
- Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Scheduled I
Rajaji Tiger Reserve: Key Features
Geographical Spread
- Encompasses three districts in Uttarakhand: Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal.
- Situated along the Shiwalik ranges’ hills and foothills.
Historical Background
- Formed in 1983 by merging Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary with Motichur and Chilla wildlife sanctuaries.
- Named after the renowned freedom fighter Rajgopalachari, also known as “Rajaji.”
Ecological Significance
- Located in a transition zone between temperate western Himalaya and central Himalaya, fostering species diversity.
- Diverse forest types, ranging from semi-evergreen to deciduous, classified as Indus-Ganges Monsoon Forest.
Flora
- Rich vegetation includes Rohini, Palash, Shisham, Sal, Sandan, Khair, Arjun, Baans, Semul, Chamaror, and more.
Fauna
- Home to diverse wildlife, including Tigers, Asian Elephants, Leopards, Jungle Cats, Himalayan Black Bears, among others.
-Source: The Hindu
