On Independence Day, the Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary will welcome two new residents: a sambar and a barking deer. These animals are part of a prey augmentation initiative aimed at enhancing the sanctuary’s biodiversity.
Details of the Release
- Animals Involved: 12 sambars from Taptapani Zoo and 11 barking deer from Nandankanan.
- Purpose: The release is symbolic, aligning with Independence Day, and aims to boost the sanctuary’s prey population.
- Quarantine Period: The animals were housed in enclosures for quarantine and acclimatization for approximately one and a half months.
Acclimatization Process
- Enclosures: Built within the sanctuary to help the animals adapt to their new environment.
- Duration: One month is considered sufficient for the animals to adjust and begin grazing and feeding as they would in the wild.
- Quote from DFO: Sarat Behera, Divisional Forest Officer, emphasized the importance of this period for the animals’ successful transition.
Tourist Attractions in Chandaka
- Tourist Spots: Kuasara, Kochilaberena, Baunsberena, Pitagadia, Kumarakhunt, Pithakhia, and 12 other locations.
- Activities: Nature trails where tourists can spot prey animals and experience serene forest environments. Night tours offer opportunities to observe carnivores.
Previous Releases and Future Plans
- Past Releases: 300 deer from Cuttack Zoo have already been released into the sanctuary.
- Future Plans: State wildlife officials have requested the Centre to provide around 10 gaurs for reintroduction.
Evolutionary Advantage
- Giraffes: Known for their seven-foot necks, giraffes use their long necks to access high foliage.
- Dromedary Camels: Their six-foot necks assist in feeding on tall shrubs and trees.
Unique Adaptations
Exhibit long necks to capture fish more effectively in aquatic environments.
Training Scheme for Animal Husbandry
- Focus Areas: Dairy, poultry, piggery, and goat farming.
- Location: Curti, Ponda.
- Components: In-class and field-based training, including a two-year veterinary assistant course.
- Support Provided: Monthly stipends, travel, and food support for participants.
World’s Most Dangerous Animals
- Mosquitoes: Leading due to their role in disease transmission.
- Box Jellyfish, Saltwater Crocodile, African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, Poison Dart Frog, Pufferfish, Cone Snail, Golden Poison Dart Frog, Inland Taipan Snake: Each known for their lethal capabilities and threats to humans.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary reason for releasing the sambar and barking deer on Independence Day?
- A) To celebrate Independence Day
- B) To boost prey population in Chandaka Sanctuary
- C) To mark the sanctuary’s anniversary
- D) To introduce new species
- How long were the animals kept in enclosures before their release?
- A) One month
- B) Two weeks
- C) One and a half months
- D) Two months
- Which animal is not mentioned as having a notably long neck in the article?
- A) Giraffe
- B) Anhinga
- C) Dromedary Camel
- D) Elephant
- What type of training is offered through the scheme introduced by the state?
- A) Veterinary training only
- B) Dairy, poultry, piggery, and goat farming
- C) Environmental conservation
- D) Wildlife photography
- Which animal tops the list of the world’s most dangerous animals due to disease transmission?
- A) Saltwater Crocodile
- B) African Elephant
- C) Mosquito
- D) Box Jellyfish