In a remarkable development for wildlife conservation, rare species in Odisha’s Keonjhar forests are witnessing an encouraging rise in population.
Over the past three years, forest department officials have closely monitored the region using strategically placed trap cameras, yielding unprecedented photographic evidence of the growing numbers of elusive creatures.
Among the captured images are the melanistic tiger, four-horned antelope, sloth bear, and pangolin—species that have historically been difficult to track. The forests of Janghira, Kaliahata, and Atai, designated as protected areas, have become thriving habitats for these endangered animals.
District Forest Officer H.D. Dhanaraj confirmed the presence of at least eight melanistic tigers along with significant populations of sloth bears, antelopes, and pangolins. “These findings reinforce the effectiveness of conservation initiatives and the importance of sustained ecological protection,” he stated.
The forest department has implemented rigorous efforts to maintain surveillance, with cameras installed at multiple locations to study wildlife movement every 15 days. Conservationists and nature enthusiasts alike are celebrating this breakthrough, as it signals hope for the continued survival and growth of these rare species in Odisha’s rich biodiversity landscape.
The increase in wildlife numbers is being seen as a testament to ongoing preservation efforts and highlights the necessity of proactive conservation policies to sustain these gains in the future.
