A wildlife survey conducted in Arunachal Pradesh has revealed a series of rare discoveries. The survey has recorded six wild cats, including the elusive Pallas’s cat, known for its solitary nature and thick, long fur, in Arunachal Pradesh. Here’s the first photographic evidence for you to see!
Elusive Pallas’s Cat Spotted In Arunachal Pradesh
A recent survey conducted by WWF-India with support from the forest department and local communities has confirmed the presence of six wild cat species in Arunachal Pradesh, including the elusive Pallas’s cat, a huge milestone! As per a report by CNBC TV18, the survey recorded snow leopards, common leopards, clouded leopards, leopard cats and marbled cats above 4,200 metres, displaying the diverse species of wild cats in the region.
But capturing the elusive Pallas’s cat has been the biggest highlight. The cat is globally listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Not only is it elusive, but it is also rarely photographed. Between July and September 2024, WWF-India set up 136 camera traps across 83 locations. Furthermore, the survey covered 2,000 sq km of high-altitude rangelands in West Kameng and Tawang districts. Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein, also shared the good news on his X account.
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Reviving Trans-Himalayan Rangelands
According to WWF-India, the survey was led by Rohan Pandit, Taku Sai, Nisam Luxom and Pemba Tsering Romo under the guidance of Rishi Kumar Sharma. The team worked in remote areas under extreme weather conditions. The project was funded by the UK government through the Darwin Initiative. It is a part of WWF-India’s “Reviving Trans-Himalayan Rangelands- A Community-led Vision for People and Nature.”
The survey also recorded India’s highest elevation sightings for several species: common leopard at 4,600 metres, clouded leopard at 4,650 metres, and marbled cat at 4,326 metres. Apart from this, the survey also recorded the Himalayan wood owl at 4,194 metres and a grey-headed flying squirrel at 4,506 metres.
This is truly a significant discovery. And honestly, the Pallas’s cat does look beautiful. Don’t you think?
Cover Image Courtesy: WWF-India/ Website
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