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Kaziranga: A Haven for Rare Fishing Cats
23 Feb
Summary
- Kaziranga National Park identified as a stronghold for fishing cats.
- Study identified at least 57 unique fishing cat individuals.
- Kaziranga's population is among the highest ever in floodplain ecosystems.
Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve has emerged as a significant stronghold for the globally vulnerable fishing cat, according to the first scientific assessment of the species. The study, conducted by Kaziranga's Tiger Cell and the Fishing Cat Project, aimed to gauge the presence and population of these elusive felines in the rhino-dominated reserve.
Data from camera traps, originally set for tiger estimation, revealed a thriving population of fishing cats. A total of 57 unique individuals were identified within an area exceeding 450 sq. km, indicating a healthy, reproducing population widely distributed across the reserve. This number is considered one of the highest ever recorded for the species within floodplain ecosystems.
This research positions Kaziranga as a crucial sanctuary for the fishing cat, a wetland specialist particularly adapted for aquatic hunting. The species, known as 'Meseka' in Assamese, faces threats from habitat loss and hunting, making protected areas like Kaziranga vital for its survival, especially within the Brahmaputra floodplains.
