Daily Current Affairs : 15-July-2023
Kuno-Palpur National Park, nestled in the Chambal region of Madhya Pradesh, India, is a vast expanse of wildlife, home to a diverse array of animals. Among its inhabitants were the magnificent cheetahs, who were relocated from South Africa to this sanctuary. However, the year has witnessed a tragic occurrence – the deaths of eight cheetahs. Wildlife officials are now grappling with potential reasons for this unfortunate loss, with satellite collars emerging as a possible cause.
Exploring the Kuno-Palpur Forest Reserve
Spanning an impressive 750 square kilometers, Kuno-Palpur National Park boasts an abundance of wildlife, making it an ideal home for various species. The park currently shelters leopards, jackals, spotted deer, sambhar, neelgai, chinkara, wild boar, and the four-horned antelope, providing a rich prey base suitable for felids. The park was even selected for the ambitious lion reintroduction project in 2013, signifying its significance in conservation efforts. Kuno-Palpur, therefore, has been on the path to becoming the world’s only sanctuary hosting all four major cat species – lion, tiger, cheetah, and leopard.
The Enigma of Satellite Collaring
Satellite collars, also known as radio collars, have emerged as a valuable tool in wildlife research and conservation. These collars are equipped with GPS technology and can be gently placed around an animal’s neck. They play a crucial role in relaying vital information about the animal’s movements and whereabouts. The GPS data collected from the collars helps researchers track and study the movement patterns of animals across various regions and habitats, offering valuable insights into their behavior and ecology.
The Benefits and Importance of Satellite Collars
- Wildlife Research: Satellite collars have revolutionized the way researchers study animals in the wild. By providing accurate and real-time data, these collars offer a comprehensive understanding of animal behavior, ranging patterns, and habitat usage.
- Conservation Efforts: The data gathered from satellite collars aids conservationists in identifying critical habitats, migration corridors, and areas prone to human-animal conflict. This information allows for better protection and management of endangered species.
- Early Warning System: Satellite collars serve as an early warning system for potential threats to wildlife. In cases of poaching or illness, researchers can detect abnormal behavior patterns and respond swiftly to protect the animals.
Unraveling the Cheetah Deaths
Amidst the enthusiasm surrounding the presence of cheetahs in Kuno-Palpur National Park, the untimely deaths of eight cheetahs have raised alarm bells. Officials are investigating multiple potential causes for these tragedies, which include:
- Wounds on the Neck and Back: Examination of the deceased cheetahs revealed physical injuries on their neck and back regions, indicating possible struggles with other animals or territorial disputes.
- Internal Weakness: Some of the cheetahs may have faced health issues or internal weaknesses that led to their demise.
- Traumatic Shock: The relocation process and the stress of adapting to a new environment may have caused traumatic shock, contributing to the unfortunate deaths.
- Degradation of Internal Organs: The stress of captivity and relocation might have impacted the cheetahs’ internal organs, leading to organ failure.
- Infection due to Satellite Collars: An intriguing possibility being explored is the potential infection caused by the satellite collars wrapped around the cheetah’s neck. While these collars are designed to be safe for animals, there is a slim chance that they might have contributed to the deaths.
Important Points:
- Kuno-Palpur National Park in Madhya Pradesh, India, is home to diverse wildlife, including cheetahs relocated from South Africa.
- Eight cheetahs have died in the park this year, prompting investigations into the possible causes.
- Potential reasons for the cheetah deaths include wounds on the neck and back, internal weakness, traumatic shock, and degradation of internal organs.
- Satellite collars, also known as radio collars, are GPS-enabled devices placed around an animal’s neck to track their movements and study behavior.
- Satellite collars serve as an early warning system, aiding wildlife research and conservation efforts.
- Kuno-Palpur National Park was chosen for the lion reintroduction project and aims to host all four major cat species – lion, tiger, cheetah, and leopard.
- The deaths have raised concerns, and investigations are exploring various possibilities, including the role of satellite collars in infections.
- Satellite collars have significant benefits, such as providing valuable data for research, aiding conservation efforts, and monitoring animal behavior.
- Possible causes for the cheetah deaths include territorial disputes, health issues, traumatic shock, and stress from relocation.
- Careful investigations and precautionary measures are necessary to protect the wildlife in Kuno-Palpur National Park.
- Collaborative efforts from the conservation community, researchers, and the public are crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the park’s inhabitants.
Why In News
After another tragic incident involving a cheetah’s death at Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, officials are investigating the potential involvement of ‘satellite collars’ in these fatalities. They aim to shed light on whether these tracking devices are posing a threat to the cheetah population and to implement measures that ensure the safety and well-being of these magnificent creatures.
MCQs about Cheetah Tragedy in Kuno National Park
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What is the main purpose of satellite collars used in wildlife research?
A) To enhance animal communication
B) To provide GPS directions to researchers
C) To track and study animal movements
D) To serve as a fashion accessory for animals
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What could be a potential cause of the cheetah deaths in Kuno National Park?
A) Lack of food resources
B) Traumatic shock during relocation
C) Excessive rainfall in the region
D) Improved internal organs due to satellite collars
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What unique distinction was Kuno National Park aiming to achieve among wildlife sanctuaries?
A) Hosting all four major cat species
B) Becoming the world’s largest park
C) Introducing a new animal species
D) Experimenting with advanced tracking technologies
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What role do satellite collars play as an early warning system?
A) Alerting animals to potential dangers
B) Helping animals find their way back to their habitat
C) Aiding in wildlife research and conservation efforts
D) Detecting abnormal behavior patterns in animals
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