GK

The largest brackish water lagoon of Chilika Lake Asia conducted the first fishing cat census in the world.

The census of fishing cats was indeed conducted in Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon located in the Indian state of Odisha. The count was the first of its kind in the world and was designed to estimate the abundance of fishing cats in the lake.

Fishing Cats are a medium-sized wild cat species found in South and Southeast Asia, including India. They are considered to be a vulnerable species, with their populations declining due to habitat loss, hunting, and human activities. Chilika Lake is one of the few remaining habitats for Fishing Cats in India and is recognized as an important site for their conservation.

The Fishing Cat Census in Chilika Lake was conducted by a team of researchers from the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) India and Chilika Development Authority (CDA) using camera traps and other techniques. The census aimed to estimate the population of Fishing Cats in the lake, identify their distribution and habitat preferences, and assess the threats to their survival.

The results of the Fishing Cat Census are expected to provide valuable information for conservation efforts aimed at protecting this endangered species and their habitats in the region.

Murali K
Author: Murali K