CONSERVATION OF SMALL WILDLIFE: A CALL TO ACTION

India has made commendable strides in protecting its wildlife, dedicating over 5 percent of its forest area to Protected Areas (PAs), which include sanctuaries and national parks.

- SANJAI MOHAN (Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force (retd.), former Chief Wildlife Warden and Head of Forest Force, Karnataka)

Our successful Project Tiger, along with similar efforts for other larger species, has garnered international recognition. However, while much has been done for big animals, the plight of smaller wildlife remains largely overlooked.

Today, it is the smaller species across myriad habitats—some secured but mostly unsecured, both inside and outside forest boundaries—that urgently need our attention. These species are often found in open areas, grasslands, scrub forests, agricultural fields, and woodlots, which are becoming increasingly vulnerable. Unfortunately, the forest department continues to regard this wildlife as insignificant and is unable to effectively safeguard them. If we don’t act swiftly, these species may be lost forever.

Karnataka is a state blessed with diverse habitats, including the Western Ghats, coastal and marine areas, riverine ecosystems, scrub forests, and open grasslands. This variety supports a remarkable array of wildlife.

One of the state’s most unique species is the Humpback Mahseer, also known as the ‘Tiger of the Cauvery.’ This indigenous fish, an integral part of the Cauvery river’s ecosystem, can weigh up to 25 kg. Unfortunately, despite overfishing and habitat degradation pushing this species to the brink of extinction, there is a significant lack of awareness about its decline.