Wildlife Trust of India equip local watchers for Markhor, Hangul conservation

Srinagar Oct 09:The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), in collaboration with the Department of Wildlife Protection (DWP), Jammu and Kashmir, has been dedicated to the conservation of the Markhor (Capra falconeri) and Hangul (Cervus hanglu) through recovery Projects. The projects have adopted a blend of biological and community-based approaches to mitigate the impacts of anthropogenic pressures such as road construction, power lines, livestock grazing, and poaching, which continue to threaten the fragile habitats of these species in Jammu and Kashmir.
As part of ongoing efforts to reduce these threats, WTI, in partnership with Department of wildlife protection, Jammu and Kashmir, with support from Astral Foundation and the Serenity Trust, equipped 30 Markhor and Hangul watchers with waterproof jackets and trekking shoes. The Markhor watchers, inhabiting the fringe communities of Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary and the hangul watcher groups from Tral Shikargah and Overa Aru Wildlife Sanctuary (for Hangul), are now better equipped to monitor the species in challenging terrains.
Earlier, WTI conducted a one-day capacity-building program to train the watchers in identifying wildlife through indirect signs like hoof marks, scats, and pellets, as well as using GPS devices and camera traps. These skills enable the watchers to track wildlife movements, particularly during the critical winter season when mountain ungulates, including Markhor and Hangul, migrate to lower elevations, making them more vulnerable to human interaction and poaching.
Poaching remains a significant threat, especially during the rutting season when these animals are confined to lower areas due to heavy snow. The role of the ‘Markhor and Hangul Watchers’ is critical in monitoring animal movements, preventing poaching, and reporting illegal activities.
Dr. Tanushree Srivastava, Project Head and Manager, J&K, WTI, highlighted the importance of regular patrolling in curbing wildlife crime.
Mr. Suhail Ahmad Wagay, Wildlife Warden (Shopian), emphasized that community-based organizations play a vital role in empowering local communities and preventing illegal activities in the area.
The team remains committed to the conservation of Markhor and Hangul across their distribution ranges, ensuring constant vigilance in safeguarding these species in their natural habitats.