In a remarkable conservation effort, the endangered white-winged wood duck (locally known as “Deo Hanh” in Assamese) has been spotted in an artificial pond named “Neelmoni Beel” at the Nameri Tiger Reserve (NTR), Assam. This sighting marks a significant milestone in the species’ conservation.
Announcement by Assam CM
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared the news on social media, stating:
“In Nameri Tiger Reserve, we tried a new experiment for conservation of White Winged Wood Duck (WWWD). Based on careful study of their habitat conditions, we created an artificial Beel ‘Neelmoni Beel’. The result? A WWWD was spotted in the Beel, making the effort a great success.”
Conservation Project Overview
- Launch Year: The project was initiated in 2023.
- Objective: To study the status, distribution, and micro-habitat preferences of the white-winged wood duck in NTR and surrounding areas.
- Methodology:
- Authorities identified existing ponds frequently used by the species.
- New water bodies were created, replicating these natural habitats.
Results of the Initiative
Field Director of NTR, Piraisoodan B, stated:
“A duck was spotted in one of the artificially created habitats. A total of four such habitats have been created under the project. This is the first initiative of its kind to create new habitats for restoring the population of the white-winged wood duck.”
About the White-Winged Wood Duck
- Conservation Status: Endangered.
- Habitat: Found in Northeast India and Southeast Asia.
- Global Population: Estimated at around 1,000 individuals.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What is the local name of the white-winged wood duck in Assamese?
a) Deo Hanh
b) Neel Beel
c) Hanh Deo
d) Deo Nameri
Answer: a) Deo Hanh
2. Where was the white-winged wood duck recently spotted?
a) Kaziranga National Park
b) Neelmoni Beel, Nameri Tiger Reserve
c) Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
d) Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
Answer: b) Neelmoni Beel, Nameri Tiger Reserve
3. What was the primary objective of the conservation project at NTR?
a) To increase the tiger population
b) To study micro-habitat preferences of the white-winged wood duck
c) To create tourist attractions
d) To conserve all bird species in the reserve
Answer: b) To study micro-habitat preferences of the white-winged wood duck
4. How many artificial habitats were created under the project?
a) Two
b) Three
c) Four
d) Five
Answer: c) Four
5. What is the estimated global population of the white-winged wood duck?
a) 500
b) 1,000
c) 5,000
d) 10,000
Answer: b) 1,000