Source: NIE
Subject: Species in News
Context: Himalayan black bears in Uttarakhand are turning unusually aggressive as erratic weather and delayed winter, linked to climate change, have disrupted their natural hibernation cycle—leading to a spike in human-wildlife conflict incidents.
About Himalayan Black Bear:
What it is?
- A subspecies of the Asiatic black bear, the Himalayan black bear is an omnivorous mammal found in the Himalayan ranges, known for the distinct crescent- or V-shaped white patch on its chest.
- It plays a vital role in forest ecology through seed dispersal and soil turnover.
Habitat:
- Inhabits broadleaf and coniferous forests between 1,200–3,300 m across the Himalayas — from Jammu & Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh — and occasionally descends to agricultural areas in search of food.
- The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) offers a key refuge.
IUCN and Legal Status:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (Highest Protection)
- CITES: Appendix I
Distinctive Characteristics:
- Glossy black coat, tan-brown muzzle, and powder-puff ears.
- Males weigh up to 180–250 kg, females 35–170 kg.
- Arboreal and nocturnal, skilled climbers and swimmers.
- Enters winter torpor/hibernation in colder months — now disrupted due to climate change.
Ecological Significance:
- Acts as a keystone species, maintaining forest regeneration through seed dispersal.
- Controls pest populations and contributes to nutrient cycling.
- Indicator of ecosystem health and climate balance in Himalayan biomes.
Conservation Concern:
- Climate variability, habitat loss, decline in fruit-bearing vegetation, and increased human encroachment are pushing the species toward greater conflict and vulnerability
