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Six Rhinos Set for Release to Combat In-Breeding
8 Mar
Summary
- Six rhinos will be released to widen Dudhwa's gene pool.
- DNA tests will ensure selected rhinos are genetically unrelated.
- Radio collars will monitor rhinos' behavior and movements post-release.
To address in-breeding challenges and expand their gene pool, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) is preparing to release six more one-horned rhinos from their secure enclosure. The selection process, expected to occur after March 20, will involve DNA testing by the Wildlife Institute of India to ensure the rhinos are genetically unrelated. Pregnant females will also be excluded from this release.
These six rhinos will join four others, including male Nakul and female Riddhi, who were released with radio-collars in November 2024. The earlier release has shown success, with Riddhi recently giving birth to a calf in the open and all rhinos exhibiting normal behavior. This move aims to increase the total number of rhinos in the open to ten, promoting interaction with migratory rhinos.
Dudhwa, with its ideal grasslands and wetlands, has been reintroducing rhinos since 1984. Project Rhino began with five rhinos, and the population has since grown to 49 across two rehabilitation areas. The current initiative signifies a continued effort to strengthen the rhino population and maintain healthy genetic diversity.
