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Source-This post on Dachigam National Park is based on the article “Himalayan black bears in Dachigam National Park get a special winter diet for Winter 2024” published in “TOI” on 6th February 2024.
Why in the News?
At Dachigam National Park in Jammu and Kashmir, a special diet has been provided to Himalayan Black Bears to support them during their natural hibernation period. Because of heavy snowfall and cold weather, the bears had trouble finding their usual food.
About Dachigam National Park
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | 1. It is located 22 kms from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir at altitudes ranging from 5500 feet to 14,000 feet. 2. It covers an area of 141 sq km (square kilometers). |
| Origin and History | 1. Its name, meaning ‘ten villages’, possibly commemorates the relocation of ten villages for its creation. 2. Initially, its establishment aimed to guarantee the provision of clean drinking water to Srinagar city. |
| National Park Status | Designated as a protected area since 1910, it attained the status of a national park in 1981. |
| Special Feature | The park is renowned for being the habitat of the critically endangered Hangul, also known as the Kashmir stag. |
| Vegetation | Himalayan moist temperate forest: sub-alpine forest and alpine forest type |
| Flora | Wild cherry, apple, pear, peach, plum, apricot, chestnut, willow, walnut, oak, pine, birch, poplar, chinar, and elm trees. |
| Fauna | 1. Besides the Hangul, Dachigam boasts populations of musk deer, leopard, Himalayan Grey Langur, leopard cat, Himalayan Black Bear, yellow-throated marten, and various other species. 2. The area is home to raptors like the Eurasian eagle owl, Lammergeier, Eurasian griffon, and white-rumped vulture. |
About Himalayan Black bear (Ursus thibetanus laniger)
1. It is a subspecies of the Asian black bear.
2. It is known for its role as a primary seed disperser which helps in maintaining ecosystem balance.
3. Nature:
a. It is typically nocturnal and elusive.
b. In the northwestern Himalayas, it hibernates during winter, while in the eastern Himalayas, it remains active throughout the year.
4. Conservation status– IUCN: Vulnerable
UPSC Syllabus- Environment/Species in news
