Source: TH
Why in News?
A rare Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole) has been camera-trapped for the first time in the Ratapani Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.
The sighting indicates improving habitat quality and prey availability in the reserve.
About Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole)
- Scientific name: Cuon alpinus
- A wild canid native to South and Southeast Asia
- A social, pack-hunting apex predator
- Plays a crucial role in regulating herbivore populations and maintaining ecosystem balance
Habitat & Distribution
- Preferred habitats:
- Dense forests
- Forest–grassland mosaics
- Hilly and undulating terrains with good prey density
- India:
- Central Indian forests
- Western Ghats
- Eastern Ghats
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Endangered (EN)
- Major threats:
- Habitat fragmentation
- Decline in prey species
- Disease transmission from domestic dogs
- Human disturbance
