Striped Hyena: Conservation Concerns in India
About the Species
- The striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) belongs to the Hyaenidae family.
- It is one of the three true hyena species, along with the brown hyena and spotted hyena; the family also includes the aardwolf.
- It is smaller and less social than the spotted hyena and is primarily a nocturnal scavenger.
Distribution and Population
- Found across parts of Asia and Africa.
- Global population: approximately 5,000–14,000 individuals.
- India: estimated 1,000–3,000 individuals.
- India does not have a comprehensive official census for the species.
Ecological Role
- Acts as a natural cleaner of ecosystems by consuming carrion and removing decaying animal remains.
- Its scavenging behaviour prevents accumulation of organic waste and supports ecosystem health.
Protection Status
- IUCN Red List: Near Threatened.
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest protection).
Need for a National Conservation Framework
- Conservation efforts remain fragmented, with only regional initiatives in states such as West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.
- A coordinated National Action Plan could integrate research, funding, and conservation initiatives across regions.
Threats
- Negative cultural beliefs and superstitions contribute to persecution.
- Human-wildlife conflict.
- Lack of population data hampering conservation planning.
Way Forward
- Community engagement, awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives to promote scientific understanding.
- Conservation breeding efforts, such as those at the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP), Visakhapatnam.