A Himalayan mammal, somewhere between a goat and an antelope, has been confirmed as the newest creature to be spotted in Assam.

Himalayan Serow

• Himalayan Serow resembles a cross between a goat, a donkey, a cow, and a pig.
• They are herbivores and are typically found at altitudes between 2,000 metres and 4,000 metres (6,500 to 13,000 feet).
• They are known to be found in the eastern, central, and western Himalayas, but not in the Trans Himalayan region.
• They are medium-sized mammal with a large head, thick neck, short limbs, long, mule-like ears, and a coat of dark hair.
• There are several species of Serow s, and all of them are found in Asia.

Try this PYQ:

Q. With reference to India’s biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith Barbet, Gray-chinned mini yet and White-throated redstart are–

(a) Birds

(b) Primates

(c) Reptiles

(d) Amphibians

Its’ conservation status

• According to the IUCN, Himalayan Serow s have experienced significant declines in population size, range size and habitat in the last decade, and this is expected to continue due to intensive human impact.
• Previously assessed as ‘near threatened’, the Himalayan Serow is now been categorised as ‘vulnerable’ in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
• It is listed under Schedule I of The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides absolute protection.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now