In a groundbreaking discovery, Mumbai-based researchers have captured the first-ever camera-trap footage of a ferret badger in Tripura’s Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary. This significant finding is part of a broader study conducted by Omkar Patil and Dr. Ashutosh Joshi from the Vivek PARC Foundation, which aimed to assess the mammalian fauna in Tripura’s protected areas.
The research, conducted from January to April 2024, involved a comprehensive survey of all protected sites in Tripura, including Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, Clouded Leopard National Park, Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary, Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary, Bison National Park, and Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary. By employing camera traps and line transects, the researchers were able to document a diverse range of mammalian species and gather valuable insights into their habitats and behaviors. The study revealed a wealth of information about Tripura’s wildlife. In addition to the ferret badger, the researchers captured images of other elusive species, such as the leopard cat, fishing cat, and crab-eating mongoose.
Indirect signs of large carnivores, including a potential clouded leopard, were also recorded. The findings of the study highlight the importance of Tripura’s protected areas as biodiversity hotspots. The region is home to a variety of rare and threatened species, making it a crucial area for conservation efforts. The researchers’ discovery of the ferret badger in Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary underscores the need for continued protection and management of these valuable ecosystems.
The collaboration between the Vivek PARC Foundation, The Habitats Trust, and the Tripura Forest Department is a testament to the importance of partnerships in conservation efforts. The study’s findings will inform future conservation strategies and help to ensure the long-term survival of Tripura’s wildlife. This groundbreaking research not only sheds light on the rich biodiversity of Tripura but also serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect and conserve our planet’s natural heritage. By understanding the distribution and behavior of species like the ferret badger, we can take targeted steps to safeguard their habitats and ensure their continued existence for generations to come.
