Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The Pygmy Hog (Porcula salvania Hodgson, 1847), is the world's smallest and rarest wild pig. Historically distributed in the sub-Himalayan grasslands, human activities have led to a severe decline in its population. Conservation efforts have focused on habitat restoration and reintroduction initiatives, with Manas National Park serving as the primary stronghold for the species. Between 2008 and 2023, 170 captive-bred pygmy hogs were released into the wild at various sites in Assam, with encouraging results, indicating successful breeding and dispersal. Additional reintroduction efforts are happening in Manas National Park to bolster the dwindling population. Presently, the wild population is estimated to be between 150 and 250 individuals, primarily confined to Manas and Orang National Parks. Collaborative conservation strategies, guided by comprehensive action plans, aim to restore grassland habitats and ensure the long-term survival of the pygmy hog and other endemic species dependent on these ecosystems. Conserving grassland habitats not only safeguards biodiversity but also contributes to regional ecological resilience and sustains livelihoods of local communities.
Source: GUINEIS Journal
Institution: Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7160891981