Home / Environment / Kaziranga's Hog Badger Population Thriving, Study Reveals
Kaziranga's Hog Badger Population Thriving, Study Reveals
14 Jun
Summary
- Kaziranga Park confirms thriving greater hog badger population.
- Over 55 individuals estimated in the studied park area.
- Badger's burrowing behavior benefits ecosystem health.
The Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve has published its inaugural scientific report on the greater hog badger, a nocturnal omnivore locally known as 'mati gahori'. This study, a collaboration between the park's Tiger Cell, Wildlife Conservation Trust, and The Fishing Cat Project, confirms that this Schedule I protected species is flourishing within the park.
Assessing camera-trap data, officials estimate at least 55 individual greater hog badgers across approximately 1,100 sq. km. While preliminary, this indicates a healthy and widespread population. The Environment and Forests Minister noted that by-catch data recorded over 60 individuals, emphasizing the strength of Kaziranga's ecosystems.
Globally, the greater hog badger faces declining populations due to habitat loss and poaching. However, India and Thailand are believed to currently harbor healthy populations. As the largest of the three extant hog badger species, the greater hog badger significantly contributes to ecosystem health through its fossorial, or burrowing, behavior, which aids soil aeration and seed germination.
