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Indian Wild Ass: According to the latest report by the Gujarat government, the population of wild asses in the state has seen a remarkable increase.
Key Findings from the 10th Wild Ass Population Estimation (WAPE)
The 10th Wild Ass Population Estimation (WAPE), conducted by the Gujarat government, has revealed that the population of wild asses, locally known as Khacchar, in Gujarat is now estimated at 7,672 individuals. This marks a 26.14% increase from the last estimation conducted in 2020, when the population was recorded at 6,082.
About the Wild Ass Sanctuary in Gujarat
Location: The Wild Ass Sanctuary is situated in the Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. It is the only habitat of the Indian wild ass and is also home to significant populations of the Rabari and Bharwad tribes.
Topography: The sanctuary encompasses a vast ecotone, serving as a transitional zone between marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The landscape features dry, dark silt with salt encrustation, interspersed with around 74 elevated plateaus, locally referred to as ‘bets’. During the monsoon season, large portions of the sanctuary can be flooded to depths of up to 2 meters.
Flora: The sanctuary primarily consists of dry thorny scrub, with minimal tree cover mainly found along the fringes and on the elevated plateaus. Notable plant species include Morad, Unt Morad, Theg, Dolari, Khijdo, Kerdo, Mithi Jar, Kheri Pilu, and Akado.
Fauna: In addition to the Indian wild ass, the sanctuary supports a variety of wildlife, including Blackbuck, Nilgai, Bluebull, Hares, Wolves, Foxes, Desert Cats, Indian Foxes, Jackals, Hyenas, and Wild Boars. The sanctuary is also home to diverse bird species, such as the Houbara Bustard, Sandgrouse, Pale Harrier, Black-shouldered Kite, and Pelicans.
About the Indian Wild Ass
Distribution and Habitat: The Indian Wild Ass, a subspecies of the Asian Wild Ass, is endemic to the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. It thrives in desert and grassland ecosystems.
Characteristics: The Indian wild ass is distinguished by its unique white markings on the anterior part of the rump and the posterior shoulder, along with a stripe down its back bordered by white. Its scientific name is Equus hemionus khur.
Conservation Status: The Indian wild ass is classified as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is listed under Appendix II of CITES and is protected under Schedule-I of the Wildlife Protection Act (1972) in India.
The significant increase in the wild ass population highlights the success of conservation efforts in Gujarat and emphasizes the importance of preserving this unique species and its habitat.
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