Historic Capture of Woolly Flying Squirrel in Himachal
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Synopsis
The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department has captured the first photographic evidence of the woolly flying squirrel in Miyar Valley, a species previously thought extinct. This discovery is significant for wildlife conservation in the region and highlights the rich biodiversity of the area.
Key Takeaways
- First photographic evidence of woolly flying squirrel.
- Rediscovered after nearly 70 years of presumed extinction.
- Part of a larger Snow Leopard Population Assessment initiative.
- 62 camera traps set up in Miyar Valley.
- Highlights the high-altitude biodiversity of Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla, April 5 (NationPress) - The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department announced on Saturday that its Wildlife Wing has successfully photographed the woolly flying squirrel, a species once thought to be extinct, in the Miyar Valley of the Lahaul-Spiti district.
This marks the first photographic evidence of the flying squirrel. The rare sighting occurred during a camera trapping survey conducted from October to December of the previous year.
A spokesperson from the department stated that the woolly flying squirrel (Eupetaurus cinereus), which is native to the north-western Himalayas, had been believed extinct until its rediscovery in 1994 after nearly 70 years.
This confirmed sighting in the state is a significant addition to the state’s mammal checklist and represents a major milestone in wildlife conservation efforts.
The camera trapping survey was part of the Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) initiative, aimed at studying populations and habitats of snow leopards.
The survey adhered to SPAI protocols and involved setting up 62 camera traps across strategic locations in the Miyar Valley.
This extensive initiative was conducted by the Wildlife Wing in partnership with the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF).
The challenging setup of camera traps across the rugged Himalayan terrain was led by a team of local youth from Kibber in Spiti, who have been engaged in conservation efforts since 2010, with additional support from a dedicated wildlife advocate from Lahaul.
In addition to the woolly flying squirrel, the camera traps captured images of several other notable species, including the snow leopard, red fox, Himalayan wolf, and mountain weasel.
These species were documented in rocky cliff zones and transitional habitats situated just above the tree line, areas that are typically preferred by the woolly flying squirrel.
These findings not only highlight the rich biodiversity of the Miyar Valley but also offer critical insights into the high-altitude ecosystems of Himachal Pradesh.
Such discoveries underscore the importance of ongoing conservation research and the necessity to protect these delicate and unique habitats.
