Context:
After two years, the unique Kashmir stag (Hangul) the state animal of Jammu and Kashmir, has again shown a marginal increase in its population.
Relevance:
GS III: Species in News
Dimensions of the Article:
- Kashmir Stag (Hangul)
- Dachigam National Park: Key Highlights
Kashmir Stag (Hangul):
- Commonly Known as Hangul: The Kashmir stag, also known as Hangul, is a subspecies of Central Asian red deer that is endemic to the region of Kashmir and its surroundings.
- Habitat: These deer are found in the dense riverine forests of the high valleys and mountains in regions of Jammu and Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh.
- Protected Area: The Dachigam National Park in Kashmir serves as a significant habitat for the Hangul, providing protection and preservation for this species.
- Population: While their population is limited, a small group of Hangul has also been observed in the Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary in south Kashmir.
Conservation Status:
- IUCN Status: The Hangul is classified as “Critically Endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), highlighting its high risk of extinction.
- CITES Listing: It is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), offering the highest level of protection against trade.
Dachigam National Park: Key Highlights
- Diverse Terrain: The park’s true beauty is showcased through its deep valleys, rugged rock formations, steep forested slopes, and expansive alpine meadows.
- Altitude Variation: Situated in a mountainous region, Dachigam National Park experiences a significant variation in altitude, ranging from 1600 meters to 4200 meters above sea level.
- Distinct Regions: This altitude diversity divides the park into two distinct regions: the upper region and the lower region, each with unique ecological features.
- Flora Abundance: The park boasts a rich flora, including various species such as Wild Cherry, Pear, Plum, Peach, Apple, Apricot, Walnut, Chestnut, Oak, and Willow.
- Varied Fauna: Dachigam National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife:
- Hangul (Kashmir Stag): This park is a crucial habitat for the endangered Hangul, also known as the Kashmir Stag.
- Musk Deer, Leopards, and More: Other residents include Musk deer, Brown Bears, Leopards, Jungle Cats, Himalayan black bears, and several species of wild goats like markhor and ibex.
-Source: The Hindu
