Unique traits of Kharsa in KLNP detected
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 15 2019:
The endangered Kharsa or Hog Deer, which is found at Keibul Lamjao National Park, has turned out to be unlike any other found in the country and is reportedly a species which is found only in some parts of South East Asian countries.
The discovery was made after scientists of Wildlife Institute of India researched the Kharsa found in Keibul Lamjao National Park, which has a larger build and larger horns compared to the Kharsa found in other parts of the country.
The report has also been published in a nature journal.
According to the scientists, DNA tests revealed the Kharsa at Keibul Lamjao National Park to be Eastern Hog Deer.
On the other hand, during the tiger survey conducted by Forest Department in Tamenglong and Senapati districts, researchers have come across prey possibly eaten by tiger(s) as well as footprints belonging to clouded leopard and bear claw marks on tree barks.
According to an official source, the survey which was carried out by three teams at Chingkao, Buning and Chakha, from March 7 till today, came across the foot prints belonging to a clouded leopard at Tharon, Tamenglong.
Bear claw marks were found at Chakha and the team also heard the call of Hoolock Gibbon (a type of ape) from near the area, the source added.
The official further explained that camera traps are being set up at Zeilad Chingkao and Chakha to ascertain the presence of any predators in the said areas.