NEWS – A recent study by the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE) reveals critical insights into blackbuck conservation, calling for urgent reforms in habitat management.

HIGHLIGHTS

Key Findings from Jayamangali Blackbuck Conservation Reserve (JBCR)

• Greater Numbers Outside Reserve: Of 180 blackbucks observed, 13 out of 14 sightings occurred outside the 3.1 sq km reserve.
  • Inside Reserve: Presence in 24 of 65 grids
  • Outside Reserve: Presence in 75 of 102 grids
• Habitat Outside More Suitable: Surrounding areas with mixed scrub, grasslands, wetlands, and farmlands proved more hospitable than tree-covered core zones.

Challenges and Recommendations

• Poor Habitat Conditions Inside: Limited water and dense tree plantations make the reserve unsuitable for grazing.
• Crop Raiding Issues: Blackbuck foraging in farmlands burdens farmers and forest officials via compensation schemes.
• Recommended Actions:
  • Restore open grassland using native grass seeds
  • Remove inappropriate tree plantations
  • Expand protection to surrounding habitats
  • Implement community-based conservation and eco-tourism

ABOUT BLACKBUCK (ANTILOPE CERVICAPRA)

• Habitat: Grasslands and savannahs in India, Nepal, Pakistan
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN: Least Concern
  • WPA, 1972: Schedule I
  • CITES: Appendix III
• Threats: Habitat loss, hunting, afforestation in grasslands
• State Animal: Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh