Smooth-Coated Otter

Source:  DTE Context: Smooth-coated otters will return to the Delhi Zoo after a 20-year absence, as part of an animal exchange program with the Surat Zoo.  About the Smooth-Coated Otter: Scientific Name: Lutrogale perspicillata Habitat: Found in wetlands, rivers, lakes, mangroves, and estuaries across South and Southeast Asia. Distribution: Native to India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri …

Sea Otters

Source:  IE Context: A recent study highlights the ecological role of endangered southern sea otters in controlling the invasive green crab population at Elkhorn Slough, California. About Sea Otter: What it is: An aquatic member of the weasel family (Mustelidae), primarily found along Pacific Ocean coasts in North America and Asia. Scientific name: Enhydra lutris. …

African Penguin

Source:  IE Context: The African Penguin, or Cape Penguin, is now “Endangered” per the IUCN, with under 10,000 breeding pairs, mostly in South Africa. Conservationists warn of possible extinction in the wild by 2035. About African Penguin: Scientific Name: Spheniscus demersus. Endemic Region: Southern Africa; primarily South Africa and Namibia. Habitat: Found within 40 km …

Markhor

Source:   Greater Kashmir Context: Efforts are urgently needed to protect the habitat of the endangered Markhor, the world’s largest wild goat, to support and increase its population in Jammu and Kashmir. About Markhor: Scientific name: Capra falconeri The UN General Assembly proclaimed 24 May the International Day of the Markhor, and it is celebrated for …

Raptor Species

GS Paper 3:   Context: 160 species of birds of prey endangered worldwide Around 30 per cent of the 557 raptor species around the world are threatened by extinction to some degree, according to a new study. The Philippine eagle, the hooded vulture and the Annobonscops-owl were among the 166 species facing some degree of …

Irrawaddy Dolphin

GS Paper 3: Topics covered: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation   Context: Irrawaddy dolphin found dead in Chilika Lake. This is the 8th dolphin death in Odisha in 8 months.   About Irrawaddy Dolphins Irrawaddy dolphins fall under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and mentioned in the International Union for the …