The population of wild asses in Gujarat has been a topic of interest and concern for wildlife conservationists. According to the 10th Wild Ass Population Estimation (WAPE) conducted by the Gujarat government earlier this year, the current population stands at 7,672. This marks a significant increase of 26.14% from the previous estimate of 6,082 in 2020.
Legal Protection Status
Wild asses are classified as protected animals under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act. They are categorized as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in 2008. Historically, wild asses roamed in North-West India, Pakistan, and Central Asia. Today, their habitat is restricted to the Little Rann of Kutch and the Great Rann of Kutch.
Declared Figures
Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera announced these findings in a press release on Monday. He highlighted the increase in the wild ass population as a notable achievement for the state in terms of wildlife conservation, especially as India celebrates Wildlife Week from October 2-8.
District-wise Distribution
In the WAPE 2024 report, the distribution of wild asses across various districts is as follows:
- Surendranagar: 2,705
- Kutch: 1,993
- Patan: 1,615
- Banaskantha: 710
- Morbi: 642
- Ahmedabad: 7
Population Breakdown by Gender and Age
In forest and sanctuary areas:
- Female Wild Asses: 2,569
- Male Wild Asses: 1,114
- Baby Wild Asses: 584
- Unclassified Wild Asses: 2,206
In revenue areas:
- Female Wild Asses: 558
- Male Wild Asses: 190
- Baby Wild Asses: 168
- Unclassified Wild Asses: 283
Methodology of Estimation
The WAPE 2024 covered an area of 15,510 square kilometers using the Direct Count Method. Minister of State for Forest and Environment Mukesh Patel stated that a special camp was organized for the enumerators, providing them with training in both traditional and modern enumeration methods. They utilized advanced technology, including drone cameras, camera traps, and forest modules, for accurate data collection.
Historical Context
Since 1976, when the wild ass population in Gujarat was just 720, conservation efforts have led to a consistent upward trend in their numbers.
Other Wildlife Enumerated
The survey also recorded populations of other wild animals, including:
- Asian Antelope: 2,734
- Wild Boars: 915
- Indian Hares: 222
- Indian Gazelles: 214
- Indian Jackals: 153
Conclusion
The latest population estimates and the successful implementation of wildlife conservation strategies underscore the importance of preserving Gujarat’s unique wildlife heritage.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the estimated population of wild asses in Gujarat as per the latest WAPE?
- A) 6,082
- B) 7,672
- C) 2,705
- D) 1,993
Answer: B) 7,672
- Which Act protects wild asses in India?
- A) Wildlife Protection Act
- B) Endangered Species Act
- C) Forest Conservation Act
- D) Animal Welfare Act
Answer: A) Wildlife Protection Act
- In which district was the highest population of wild asses recorded?
- A) Patan
- B) Kutch
- C) Surendranagar
- D) Banaskantha
Answer: C) Surendranagar
- How many female wild asses are found in forest and sanctuary areas?
- A) 558
- B) 1,114
- C) 2,569
- D) 2,206
Answer: C) 2,569
- Which modern technology was used during the WAPE 2024 for counting wild asses?
- A) Satellite imagery
- B) Drone cameras
- C) GPS tracking
- D) Biometric scanners
Answer: B) Drone cameras