The forest department has initiated preparations for a scientific wildlife census in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Bageshwar district. The objective is to evaluate the population and movement patterns of key species, including tigers, leopards, bears, deer, and foxes, officials confirmed.
Sanctuary Overview
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its dense oak and deodar forests, rich biodiversity, and panoramic Himalayan views, stands as one of Kumaon's most significant protected forest areas. It is also a major tourist attraction, drawing nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.
Census Methodology
Officials stated that the sanctuary, which spans 47.59 square kilometers in the Kumaon region, has been divided into 50 grids for the census. More than 100 camera traps will be installed across various forest zones to capture wildlife activity and behavioral patterns. This camera-trap survey is expected to generate precise data on the number of animals inhabiting the sanctuary, their movement corridors, and habitat use. Additionally, the exercise aims to identify the presence and population of foxes, which officials noted remain largely undocumented.
Team and Expertise
A six-member departmental team, supported by senior wildlife experts, has been assigned to conduct the survey and analyze the data collected from the cameras. DFO Civil Soyam Almora Pradeep Dhaulakhandi emphasized the importance of the census, stating, "The census would strengthen wildlife conservation and management efforts in the sanctuary while also helping authorities better understand the local ecosystem." He added, "Preparations for the wildlife census are underway. The exercise will provide accurate information about the wildlife population present in the sanctuary."
Environmental Perspective
Environmentalist Ishwar Joshi highlighted the broader significance of the initiative, saying, "The wildlife census would play an important role in strengthening conservation efforts in the Binsar landscape and help protect fragile Himalayan biodiversity." The census is expected to provide critical insights that will aid in preserving the sanctuary's ecological balance and supporting long-term conservation strategies.
