Home / Environment / Tech Meets Tradition: Wildlife Census Uses Apps & Droppings
Tech Meets Tradition: Wildlife Census Uses Apps & Droppings
15 Dec
Summary
- Nationwide wildlife census uses advanced technology and manual methods.
- Tiger population in India was 3,167 in 2022, expecting an increase.
- Census concludes in April 2026, involving 1,600 forest personnel.
India has initiated a nationwide wildlife census, a scientific exercise conducted every four years to meticulously document animal populations. This extensive survey spans 31 territorial forest areas and five protected areas, including prominent sites like the Palamu Tiger Reserve and Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary.
The census integrates advanced technological tools, such as an ecological app and camera traps, alongside traditional field techniques. These manual methods involve collecting animal droppings and noting footprints and scratch marks, ensuring a holistic data collection process. This approach is guided by the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Wildlife Institute of India.
According to the 2022 census, India was home to 3,167 tigers, representing 70% of the global population, with expectations of an increase this year. The app-based counting is scheduled to finish by December 22, 2025, with the full conclusion of the exercise, encompassing both protected and non-protected forest divisions, expected by April 2026.
