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Source-This post on Himalayan serow has been created based on the article “Himalayan serow spotted in Nameri” published in “Times of India” on 30 May 2024.
Why in News?
Recently, Himalayan serow was seen for the first time in the central region of Nameri National Park and Tiger Reserve.
About Himalayan serow
| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1. Himalayan serow is a subspecies of the mainland serow (Capricornis sumatraensis). 2. It resembles a cross between a goat, a donkey, a cow, and a pig |
| Habitat | 1. They are found at high altitudes between 2,000 metres and 4,000 metres. 2. They are known to be found in the eastern, central, and western Himalayas but not in the Trans Himalayan region. |
| Physical Characteristics | It is a medium-sized mammal with a large head, thick neck, short limbs, long, mule-like ears, and a coat of dark hair. It is a very elusive animal. |
| Diet | Himalayan serows are herbivores animals. |
| Distribution | 1. There are several species of serows in the world. All of them are found in Asia. 2. However, they are restricted to the Himalayan region. |
| Conservation Status | IUCN Red List: Vulnerable CITES: Appendix I The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I |
About Nameri Tiger Reserve
| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1. Nameri Tiger Reserve is located in the northern area of Sonitpur district in Assam, close to the foothills of Arunachal Pradesh. 2. It shares its northern boundary with Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh, creating a continuous habitat. 3.The reserve has been carved out of two protected areas: Nameri National Park & Sonai-Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, and two Reserve Forests: Naduar Reserve Forest & Balipara Reserve Forest. |
| River | It is defined by the Jia-Bhoreli river on the west and the Bor-Dikorai river on the east. |
| Vegetation | The reserve’s vegetation includes tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, cane brakes, and some open grassland patches along the rivers. |
| Fauna | 1. Its fauna is diverse and notable, especially for the presence of the rare white-winged wood duck. 2. Other species include the leopard cat, common otter, black giant squirrel, Indian mongoose, large clawed shrew, Indian flying fox, slow loris, Assamese macaque, and Rhesus macaque. |
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
