KASHMIR STAG (HANGUL)
- The Kashmir stag, also known as hangul, is a majestic animal endemic to the Kashmir region of India and surrounding areas. It is a subspecies of the Central Asian red deer and is the state animal of Jammu and Kashmir
- Kashmir stags are known for their impressive antlers, which can grow up to 16 points. They are herbivores and their diet primarily consists of grass, herbs, leaves, barks, and twigs. These stags live in groups of two to 18 individuals and inhabit dense riverine forests, high valleys, and mountains
- Kashmir stag is classified as critically endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This is due to a number of threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and competition with livestock for food and resources. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this beautiful and important species
-
Habitat: The Hangul primarily inhabits the dense riverine forests and high-altitude meadows of the Kashmir Valley. Its habitat includes areas with a mix of coniferous and broad-leaved trees.
-
Physical Characteristics:
- Antlers: Male Hanguls are characterized by their impressive antlers. The antlers have several points and are often large and branching, making them a distinctive feature of this species.
- Coat: Hanguls have a thick, reddish-brown coat with a darker mane during the winter season. In summer, their coat becomes lighter in color.
-
Endangered Status: The Hangul is listed as a critically endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The population has faced significant decline due to various factors, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
-
Conservation Efforts: Efforts are being made to conserve the Kashmir Stag and its habitat. Conservation measures include the establishment of protected areas, community involvement in conservation initiatives, and monitoring and research to better understand the species and its ecological requirements
Threats:
- Habitat loss: Encroachment on their natural habitat due to infrastructure development, deforestation, and illegal logging.
- Overgrazing: Competition with livestock for food and resources.
- Poaching: Hunting for antlers, meat, and traditional medicine.
- Predation: Attacks by wolves, leopards, and feral dogs.
- Disease: Outbreaks of diseases can significantly impact populations.
- Human-wildlife conflict: Interactions with humans can lead to injuries and deaths on both sides.
- Establishing and maintaining protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries is crucial for the conservation of Hangul. These areas provide a safe haven for the deer and help restrict human activities that threaten their survival.
- Involving local communities in conservation efforts is essential. Educating and engaging with communities to reduce human-wildlife conflicts and promote sustainable coexistence can contribute to the species' conservation
- Strengthening anti-poaching efforts and implementing stricter law enforcement measures can help curb illegal hunting and protect the Hangul from poachers
- Efforts to restore and rehabilitate the Hangul's natural habitat are crucial. This includes reforestation programs and initiatives to mitigate the impact of habitat loss
- Continuous research and monitoring of the Hangul population, behavior, and habitat conditions are essential for understanding the species' needs and implementing effective conservation strategies
Project Hangul is a critical conservation initiative launched in the 1970s to protect the endangered Kashmir stag, also known as the hangul. It is a collaborative effort between the Jammu and Kashmir government, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
The urgent need for Project Hangul arose due to the drastic decline of the Kashmir stag population, which plummeted from an estimated 3,000-5,000 individuals in the 1940s to a mere 150 by 1970. This decline was primarily attributed to:
- Habitat loss: Encroachment on their natural habitat, including deforestation and illegal logging.
- Overgrazing: Competition with livestock for food and resources.
- Poaching: Hunting for antlers, meat, and traditional medicine.
Dachigam National Park: A Haven for Wildlife
Dachigam National Park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park's terrain varies considerably, ranging from gently sloping grasslands to dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops. This variation in altitude, from 1600 meters to 4200 meters above sea level, creates a rich ecosystem that supports a variety of plant and animal life.
-
Flora: The park is home to a variety of trees, including wild cherry, apple, pear, peach, and oak. Other prominent plant species include pine, birch, poplar, and chestnut.
-
Fauna: Dachigam National Park is a haven for several threatened and endangered animal species. The park is most renowned for being the last viable population of the hangul. Besides hangul, the park is home to Asiatic black bears, Himalayan brown bears, Indian leopards, Himalayan grey langurs, yellow-throated martens, Himalayan wolves, and numerous bird species
|
Previous Year Questions
1.Which of the following species is also called the 'Kashmir Deer'? (NTPC CBT 2 2016)
A.Hangul
B.Barasingha
C.Sangai
D.Cheetal
Answer (A)
2.Dachigam National Park is associated with which of the following? (UPSC CSE 2018)
A.Musk Deer
B.Golden Oriole
C.Yellow-throated Marton
D.Hangul or Kashmir Stag
Answer(D)
|
