2. The Himalayan wolf is a top
carnivore in the Asian high-
altitudes, which hold some of the
last intact large wilderness
areas on our planet. It is
considered an ancient wolf as it
evolved before the
contemporary grey wolf which
is found especially in large parts
of North America and Eurasia.
3. About the wolf
The research, published in the Journal of Biogeography, reveals this wolf's evolutionary uniqueness
based on many different genetic markers; including a genetic adaptation to cope with the high-altitude
environment, which is an adaptation that is not found in any other wolf.
They are found in high-altitudinal regions in the Himalayas and the Tibetan plateau. India, Nepal and
China are the resident countries of the wolf and conservation practices must be implemented in these
regions.
It is larger in size than the Indian and European wolves. They reach up to 110-180 cm in length, about
75 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh around 50 kg.
They have a thick fur with brown colouration on the back and tail with paler yellows on the face, limbs
and underside.
The main prey species include yak, kiang, bharal, Tibetan gazelle, Siberian ibex, marmot and other
small mammals like hare. Human-wildlife conflict arises due to the loss of livestock. They also have
prey competition with the snow leopard.
They have small pack sizes with. 6 – 8 members. Their territorial range often overlaps with other wolf
species (specially the Indian wolf).
4. Habitat Loss: Destruction and fragmentation of natural habitats due to
human activities, such as deforestation, agriculture, and infrastructure
development, can limit the available space for wolf populations.
1.
Human-Wildlife Conflict: As human populations expand into wolf habitats,
conflicts may arise over livestock predation. Retaliatory killings by
humans are a significant threat to wolf populations.
2.
Poaching: Illegal hunting and poaching, whether for their fur or perceived
threats to livestock, can contribute to the decline of wolf populations.
3.
Climate Change: Changes in climate patterns can impact prey availability
and distribution, affecting the wolves' ability to find food.
4.
Reason for endangered
5. Conservation of the speices
Research and Monitoring: Conducting scientific studies to understand the ecology, behavior,
and population dynamics of wolves in the region is essential for effective conservation planning.
1.
Habitat Protection: Establishing and maintaining protected areas to safeguard the natural
habitats where wolf populations reside.
2.
Community Engagement: Working with local communities to reduce human-wildlife conflicts
through the implementation of sustainable livestock management practices and raising
awareness about the importance of wolves in maintaining ecological balance.
3.
Legal Protections: Enforcing and strengthening legal protections for wolves, preventing illegal
hunting and trade, and establishing penalties for offenses.
4.
Transboundary Cooperation: Collaborating with neighboring countries to ensure coordinated
conservation efforts, as wildlife often moves across borders.
5.