SIKKIM: Climate change has been affecting the environment in various ways. To shed light on its impact, trap cameras were set up at exceptional heights to capture animal activity. The result was remarkable as it revealed that both Royal Bengal tiger and gaur have succumbed to climate changes too!
The forest and environment department in Sikkim have accomplished an incredible feat by utilizing trap cameras to capture images of a royal Bengal tiger and gaur at high altitudes. The photo of the tiger, taken at 3,966 meters above sea level, achieved a national record while the image of the gaur captured at 3,568 meters set a new world record.
The accomplishment was possible due to a team effort by the Sikkim forestry department and the Wildlife Institute of India. Collaboratively, they initiated trap cameras' installation in high-altitude regions across Himalayan state to assess climate change's influence on significant mammals.
Environmentalists and the people of Sikkim are filled with optimism due to recent sightings. It is worth noting that such rare sightings have occurred before. In 2019, a tiger was observed in north Sikkim at an altitude of 3,602 meters above sea level. Similarly, last year saw another tiger captured on camera at Pangolakha's elevation of 3,640 meters.
According to an expert, it is unusual for a gaur to be present at such elevated locations. These animals can typically be found below 1,800 meters and are known as the largest cattle species in the world. They have their origin in South and Southeastern Asia with India having large numbers of them. The fact that this particular sighting occurred at high altitude holds significance because gaurs play a vital role in sustaining various carnivorous creatures like tigers, common leopards, and Asiatic wild dogs by being part of their food chain.
The use of trap cameras in Kyongnosla and Pangolakha wildlife sanctuaries has resulted in numerous images capturing tigers. Through these discoveries, important knowledge regarding the actions and mobility of such impressive creatures concerning varying environmental factors can be obtained.
According to the Sikkim forest department, their joint effort was intended not only to commemorate the uncommon sightings but also to provide crucial information for comprehending larger ecological consequences. By examining large mammals' conduct in elevated regions, scientists can determine climate change's possible impact on their surroundings and migration routes. Amidst global ecological issues, Sikkim's accomplishment serves as a guiding light of optimism by highlighting the significance of safeguarding endeavors and persistent supervision for wildlife in various habitats.
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