Is the Musk Deer Making a Comeback in Neora Valley National Park?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
After a staggering 70 years, the elusive musk deer has been rediscovered in Neora Valley National Park. What does this mean for conservation efforts? Join us as we delve into the excitement surrounding this rare sighting and the implications for wildlife in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- Musk deer sighted in Neora Valley National Park after 70 years.
- Last recorded sighting was in 1955.
- Captured using 50 hidden cameras during a wildlife survey.
- Classified as Endangered by IUCN.
- Significant for conservation efforts in West Bengal.
Kolkata, Nov 25 (NationPress) After a gap of seven decades, a musk deer has been captured on a hidden camera set up by the forest department in the Neora Valley National Park, located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal.
This species is exceptionally rare, and both forest officials and staff are thrilled at the sighting of the musk deer in the mountainous regions of West Bengal, where it was last recorded in 1955.
Bhaskar J. V., the Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) for North Bengal, stated, "A comprehensive two-year survey conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India established the presence of musk deer in the Neora Valley forests. Following this, approximately 50 trap cameras were strategically positioned in various locations across the hills, resulting in the capture of images of this endangered species."
Nevertheless, forest officials emphasize the need for further research on this matter. They are particularly keen to gather more information regarding the specific species of deer and the existing population.
The last known sighting of the musk deer in West Bengal was in the Singalila National Park of Darjeeling in 1955.
The forest department reported that the Wildlife Institute of India is currently conducting a survey for the Red Panda census in 2023-2024 across the Neora Valley National Park, which is positioned at an altitude of 3,112 meters above sea level. During this effort, the musk deer was photographed by a trail camera on December 17, 2024. Forest officials were genuinely astonished when they reviewed the camera footage, confirming the presence of musk deer within the Neora Valley forest.
The musk deer is categorized as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
In addition to the Neora Valley in Darjeeling, musk deer can also be found in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand in India.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to highlight significant wildlife discoveries like the musk deer sighting in Neora Valley. This not only showcases the importance of conservation efforts but also engages the public in wildlife protection. We must remain vigilant and support research initiatives to ensure the survival of endangered species.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the musk deer spotted?
The musk deer was spotted in Neora Valley National Park, Kalimpong district, West Bengal.
When was the last time the musk deer was seen?
The musk deer was last seen in West Bengal in 1955.
What is the status of the musk deer?
The musk deer is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
How many trap cameras were used in the survey?
Around 50 trap cameras were installed in various locations to monitor the presence of musk deer.
What other regions in India have musk deer?
Musk deer can also be found in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand.
