Species in news: Himalayan Serow

  • IASbaba
  • December 16, 2020
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Species in news: Himalayan Serow

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Biodiversity

In news

  • A Himalayan serow has been sighted for the first time in the Himalayan cold desert region of Spiti, Himachal Pradesh.
  • Wildlife officials believe this particular animal may have strayed into the Spiti valley from the Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary, HP 

Important value addition

Himalayan serow

  • Scientific name: The Himalayan serow, or Capricornis sumatraensis thar
  • It is a subspecies of the mainland serow (Capricornis sumatraensis).
  • It resembles a cross between a goat, a donkey, a cow, and a pig. 
  • It’s a 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 serows, and all of them are found in Asia. 
  • Himalayan serows are typically found at altitudes between 2,000 metres and 4,000 metres.
  • They are known to be found in eastern, central, and western Himalayas, but not in the Trans Himalayan region.
  • It is herbivores.
  •  IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable 
  • It is listed under Schedule I of The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides absolute protection.

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