The Journal of Threatened Taxa is a monthly, peer-reviewed, scientific, open access, international journal on conservation and all associated fields. The aim is to make research results, data, scientific information available free and wide. The motto is to build evidence for conservation globally!
Wildlife Information Liaison Development (WILD) Society
Authors own the copyright to the articles published in JoTT. This is indicated explicitly in each publication. The authors grant permission to the publisher Wildlife Information Liaison Development (WILD) Society to publish the article in the Journal of Threatened Taxa. The authors recognize WILD as the original publisher, and to sell hard copies of the Journal and article to any buyer. JoTT is registered under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY), which allows authors to retain copyright ownership. Under this license the authors allow anyone to download, cite, use the data, modify, reprint, copy and distribute provided the authors and source of publication are credited through appropriate citations (e.g., Son et al. (2016). Bats (Mammalia: Chiroptera) of the southeastern Truong Son Mountains, Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam. Journal of Threatened Taxa 8(7): 8953–8969. https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.2785.8.7.8953-8969). Users of the data do not require specific permission from the authors or the publisher.
Abundance, habitat preference, and ethnobiological assessment of the invasive Golden Apple Snail Pomacea canaliculata (Lamarck, 1822) in selected rice fields in Lanao del Sur, Philippines
This study assessed the abundance, habitat preference, and ethnobiological impacts of the Golden Apple Snail (GAS) Pomacea canaliculata in selected rice fields in Lanao del Sur, Philippines. Employing the Lincoln-Petersen estimator, the population was estimated at 184 individuals during the initial sampling and increased to approximately 920 in the subsequent period, reflecting a significant rise over time. The combined density of adults and juveniles ranged 0.75–0.96 individuals per m2 in the first period, and 2.00–3.39 individuals per m2 in the second. Adult snails were mostly associated with water and sediment, while juveniles concentrated primarily in sediment. Egg clutch density was higher in the first sampling period (0.30 clutches) compared to the second (0.12 clutches), with leaf sheaths identified as the preferred oviposition site. Water temperature ranged 22.7–27.0 °C, pH 6.83–7.23, relative humidity 83.5–89.2 %, and water depth 4.5–13 cm, indicating that warmer, deeper, and more humid conditions promoted increased activity and abundance. Ethnobiological data revealed that farmers regard GAS as a serious pest that reduces rice yields, threatens livelihoods, and poses health risks, including injuries, pesticide irritation, and schistosomiasis. While traditional methods and synthetic pesticides are used, farmers find these approaches costly, labor-intensive, and only partially effective. Overall, findings highlight that P. canaliculata is an abundant, adaptable invasive species threatening rice agriculture, livelihoods, and public health. This underscores the urgent need for integrated, sustainable, and community-based management strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ashiah M. Dimalutang, Mohammad Al-Thanie U. Paudac, Jonald C. Bornales, Rosabeth M. Macapil, Mayleen P. Malagamba, Naima R. Sirad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Record of the crambid moth Aethaloessa calidalis (Guenée, 1854) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae: Spilomelinae) from Chhattisgarh, India
Aethaloessa calidalis (Guenée, 1854) is a moth belonging to the family Crambidae, distributed across various states of India, yet it has remained unreported from Chhattisgarh. During a nocturnal light-trap survey at Semra Village, Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh, one adult of this species was documented and identified using its distinctive orange-yellow wing patches, dark marginal shading, and orange abdomen with a black tip, matching published descriptions and photographic references. This constitutes the first state record of Aethaloessa calidalis from Chhattisgarh and extends its known distribution into central India. The finding highlights the value of continued moth monitoring to improve the state’s moth inventories.
Copyright (c) 2026 Akanksha Chandrakar, Shashi Gupta https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
First photographic record of the Northern Swamp Deer Rucervus duvaucelii duvaucelii in Upper Ganga River Ramsar Site, India
The Swamp Deer is represented by three sub-species, viz., the northern subspecies Rucervus duvaucelii duvaucelii, the central Indian subspecies or hardground Barasingha R. d. branderi, and the eastern subspecies R. d. ranjitsinhi in India. The northern subpopulation is restricted to the Gangetic plains of India and the Terai grasslands of Nepal, which constitute more than 75% of the global population. Previous records of swamp deer along the Ganga River were limited to State Wildlife Barasingha Sanctuary. We recorded a small population of eight swamp deer (two males, three females, and three sub-adults) in a grassland patch along the Ganga River in Narora during the biodiversity survey of the Upper Ganga River Ramsar Site. This is the southernmost extension of the distribution range of swamp deer, around 70 km from the State Wildlife Barasingha Sanctuary.
Copyright (c) 2026 Aftab Alam Usmani, Pichaimuthu Gangaiamaran, Ruchi Badola, Syed Ainul Hussain https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Diversity and habitat associations of avifauna in the Poovar Estuary, Kerala, India
This study assessed bird diversity in Poovar, a coastal wetland complex in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, India, from August 2024 to July 2025. 88 bird species from 17 orders and 37 families were documented, encompassing both resident and migratory populations. According to the IUCN Red List, all species were categorized as ‘Least Concern’ except for the River Tern Sterna aurantia and Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster, listed as ‘Vulnerable’ and ‘Near Threatened’, respectively. Based on migratory status, 56 species were residents and 32 were winter visitors, highlighting the role of Poovar as a significant refuge for migratory waterbirds along the southwest coast of India. Feeding guild analysis showed that 34% of species were insectivorous, followed by carnivores and piscivores, reflecting the functional diversity of the community. Habitat association indicated waterbirds utilized varied habitats, showing overlap in habitat-specific assemblages such as backwater, mangroves, and beaches, emphasizing the influence of habitat heterogeneity on avian distribution. Urban areas showed a distinctive species composition having little overlap with farmland assemblages. The habitat mosaic of Poovar supports a diverse and dynamic avifaunal assemblage. Habitat association analysis indicated that waterbirds utilized a variety of habitats.
Copyright (c) 2026 B.S. Bipitha, V. Reshmi, H. Maitreyi, H. Byju https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Camera-trap record of the Indian Grey Wolf Canis lupus pallipes (Sykes, 1831) (Mammalia: Carnivora: Canidae) from Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha, India
Camera-trap surveys in Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha, recorded the Indian Grey Wolf Canis lupus pallipes in the area. This photographic evidence extends the known distribution of the species in eastern India and highlights the need for continued monitoring and conservation efforts.
Copyright (c) 2026 Siddhanta Kumar Mohanta, R. Kalaivanan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Metabarcoding-based diet characterization of the Kolar Roundleaf Bat Hipposideros hypophyllus Kock & Bhat, 1994 (Chiroptera: Hipposideridae) and its peninsular Indian congeners
We used faecal DNA metabarcoding to analyse the diets of the Kolar Roundleaf Bat Hipposideros hypophyllus, and its three congeners (H. durgadasi, H. fulvus, & H. speoris) cohabiting a roost in Kolar District (Karnataka, India). We collected faecal pellets of these bats returning to the roost after the first feeding bout over three seasons between 2021 and 2022. The whole diet of all these species consisted of 7,309 Operational Taxonomic Units (OTU) belonging to phylum Arthropoda. Although no significant difference among the whole diets of the four species was found, H. hypophyllus consumed the most amount of insect taxa (4,114 species) compared to others. The core diets consisted of 48 taxa belonging to 10 orders, 37 families, and 46 genera. A significant difference was found between the core diets, with H. hypophyllus and H. speoris feeding on more diverse insects; diets did not overlap, hinting that the study species are diet specialists. Prey species belonging to orders Lepidoptera and Diptera were abundant in the diet of all four species of bats. The core diet of the Kolar Roundleaf Bat varied significantly between the seasons, with ≥70% intake of lepidopterans in the monsoon and winter seasons. All four species fed on medically and agriculturally significant insect pests as well, indicating their role as bio-controllers in this ecosystem. This study, the first of its kind in India, is an initial exploration of the use of non-invasive diet characterisation for enhancing our knowledge of the ecological interactions of endemic and threatened bat species in sensitive and diverse ecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bhargavi Srinivasulu, Aditya Srinivasulu, Chelmala Srinivasulu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Breeding ecology and nest-site characteristics of the Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus in Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, a Ramsar Wetland of Gujarat, India
This study assessed the population status, nesting ecology, breeding phenology, and reproductive performance of the Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus in Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, a Ramsar Site (No. 2492) located along the Gulf of Kachchh, India. Field surveys were conducted from July 2024 to March 2025 using stratified point counts (n = 48 points), nest monitoring, and systematic behavioural observations. All nests were constructed on Neltuma juliflora (syn. Prosopis juliflora) at heights of 3–4.5 m. Active nesting extended from early October (nest building) to late December (fledging). The mean nest attendance per visit was 62 ± 18 minutes (n = 89 visits), and partner replacement during foraging occurred in 94% of departures, indicating strong biparental coordination. Each nest produced two fledglings. Nesting sites were associated with shallow semi-perennial water (0.3–0.7 m), emergent vegetation, elevated micro-topography, and low disturbance levels. The sanctuary supported 21–23 individuals during the peak season, including breeders, non-breeders, and juveniles.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sandeep Munjpara, Divyrajsinh Jadeja, Nita Solanki, Amitkumar Nayak, B.P. Pati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Recent sighting of Black Baza Aviceda leuphotes Dumont, 1820 (Aves: Accipitriformes: Accipitridae) in Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand, India
The Black Baza Aviceda leuphotes is a small migratory raptor of the family Accipitridae, primarily distributed across northeastern India, the eastern Himalaya, and southeastern Asia, with scattered seasonal records from peninsular and western India. Validated records from northern India remain limited. A single individual was observed on 20 December 2025 in a semi-evergreen forest-edge habitat near Chorgaliya, Uttarakhand. The identification was confirmed using diagnostic plumage characters and photographic evidence. Previous records from Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry suggest that the species exhibits broader seasonal occurrence patterns across India than previously understood. The present observation represents the first scientifically documented record of the species from the Nandhaur landscape and constitutes a notable northwestern range extension within the Indian subcontinent. The occurrence during winter further supports the possibility of seasonal dispersal or migratory movement from eastern populations. This record highlights the ecological importance of the Terai–Bhabar landscape as a potential stopover or seasonal foraging habitat for migratory raptors and emphasizes the need for long-term monitoring of avifaunal movements in the Himalayan foothills.
Copyright (c) 2026 Prashant Kumar, Inder Singh Rautela, Chandan Kumar, Pawan Koranga, Deepak Dharmashktu, Kundan Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Notes on the occurrence of southeastern Asian taxon Scopellaria marginata (Blume) W.J.de Wilde & Duyfjes (Cucurbitaceae) in the Nicobar Islands: a new distribution record in the Indian part of Sundaland
Scopellaria marginata (Blume) W.J.de Wilde & Duyfjes, collected from Teressa Island of the Nancowrie group of Islands in Nicobar District of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, forms a new distribution record in the Indian part of the Sundaland. Earlier, this taxon was reported from southeastern Asia and southern China. Its description, phenology, ecology, and relevant notes are presented.
Copyright (c) 2026 K. Pradheep, K. Joseph John, I. Jaisankar, P.K. Singh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Taxonomic reassessment of Ompok hypophthalmus (Bleeker, 1846) (Actinopterygii: Siluriformes: Siluridae) in Indonesia with global implications
Indonesia harbors exceptional freshwater fish diversity, yet taxonomic uncertainty persists for several economically important species, including Ompok hypophthalmus. This study provides a critical assessment of the morphological and molecular identification of O. hypophthalmus in Indonesia by analyzing published literature and publicly available mitochondrial DNA sequence data retrieved from resources such as NCBI. Morphological revisions by Ng (2003) recognized three distinct taxa within the O. hypophthalmus complex (O. hypophthalmus, O. rhadinurus, and O. urbaini), yet subsequent studies have frequently applied species names inconsistently, particularly in Sumatra. Analysis of available cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and cytochrome b (Cyt b) sequences reveals substantial genetic structuring among river populations, suggesting historical misidentification and possible cryptic diversity. Limited sequence availability and incomplete geographic coverage preclude definitive conclusions regarding species boundaries in some river systems. This study highlights the urgent need for integrative taxonomy, i.e., combining morphology, standardized DNA barcoding, and expanded sampling to resolve species identities and to support effective fisheries management and conservation planning in Indonesian freshwater ecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dinesh Nalage, Tejswini Sontakke, Ashwini Biradar, Vidya Pradhan, P.S. Kudnar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Predation record of the hornet Vespa basalis Smith, 1852 (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) by the orb-weaver spider Nephila pilipes (Fabricius, 1793) (Araneae: Araneidae)
We report a rare observation of Nephila pilipes (Fabricius, 1793), a large orb-weaving spider, capturing and immobilizing Vespa basalis Smith, 1852, an aggressive hornet species. The predation event was documented at Dehradun Zoological Park, Uttarakhand, India, on 10 November 2024. This record expands the known prey spectrum of N. pilipes, which is typically associated with flying insects and occasionally small vertebrates. Our observation highlights the ability of N. pilipes to subdue formidable hymenopteran prey and contributes to understanding spider-hornet interactions in tropical ecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shantam Ojha, Gautam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
An evasive naticid surfaces in India: first confirmed report of Gennaeosinum perobliquum (Dautzenberg & Fischer, 1907) (Gastropoda: Naticidae)
This study provides the first record of the naticid species Gennaeosinum perobliquum in Indian waters. Previously documented from Vietnam, Indonesia, and South Africa, G. perobliquum was collected during a benthic survey, from the intertidal zone of Chandipur, Balasore, Odisha, on the eastern coast of India. A clear description of the shell morphology is provided, along with detailed morphometric and imaging analyses. By comparing G. perobliquum with related naticid species found in India, this work aims to refine taxonomic understanding and contribute to knowledge of naticid biodiversity in the region. This newly documented record not only expands the known geographic distribution of G. perobliquum but also underscores the importance of continued benthic faunal surveys for further exploration of molluscan biodiversity in the Bay of Bengal and adjacent regions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Aparna Mishra, Sanjaya Dalai, Roberto Ardovini, N.V. Subba Rao, Dipti Raut https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Abyssinian Blue-winged Goose Cyanochen cyanoptera Rüppell, 1845 population size, distribution, and habitat association in the central-south highlands of Ethiopia
The endemic and threatened Abyssinian Blue-winged Goose Cyanochen cyanoptera is restricted to the Ethiopian highlands, yet its population ecology and habitat use remain limited. This study assessed population size, spatial and temporal distribution, and habitat utilization across wetlands in the central-south highlands of Ethiopia over three consecutive years (2015–2018). Population counts were conducted using the total count method, and data were analysed in Jamovi (v2.5.6) and R (v4.5.1). Mean population counts varied significantly across months, with peak abundance in August (3,136 ± 105 individuals) and the lowest in May (420 ± 24 individuals). Generalized linear mixed models indicated that habitat type and season significantly influenced abundance, while random effects of sites (ICC = 0.682) and month (ICC = 0.141) accounted for substantial unexplained variation. Model-adjusted estimates showed significantly lower abundance in farmland habitats (39.9 geese, 95% CI: 19.3, 82.1) compared with shoreline (63.4 geese, 95% CI: 30.7, 131, ratio = 0.63, z = -5.37, p < 0.001) and grassland (69.8 geese, 95% CI: 33.9, 143.7, ratio = 0.57, z = -6.95, p < 0.001), with no significant difference between the latter two (ratio = 0.91, z = -1.09, p = 0.52). Habitat use showed strong seasonal variation (p < 0.001), with increased reliance on farmland during the dry season and preference for shoreline and grassland habitats during the wet season, reflecting seasonal plasticity. Although the overall population appears to be stable, its distribution is highly dynamic and driven by resource availability and specific habitat preferences. Increasing conversion of wetlands and communal grazing lands into agricultural fields has reduced core habitats, altering traditional land-use systems and intensifying human–geese interactions. These findings underscore the importance of wetland size, habitat quality, and socio-ecological drivers in shaping the distribution of C. cyanoptera. The long-term persistence of this range-restricted species will depend on protecting key wetlands and promoting sustainable land-use practices that balance conservation with local livelihoods.
Copyright (c) 2026 Solomon Mengistu, Afework Bekele https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
New breeding record of Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus from Malappuram District, Kerala, India
A breeding colony of Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus was recorded on 4th November 2025 at Edavannappara, Malappuram District, Kerala, India. Three active nests containing seven chicks were observed on upper branches of Alstonia scholaris. The nesting tree was located along a busy roadside exposed to daily disturbances, frequent human interference and vehicular traffic. The surrounding landscape comprised paddy fields and agro-ecosystems. This observation represents a new breeding record of the species from Malappuram District and highlights the ecological importance of the area for the conservation of waterbirds. Long term monitoring and protection of the breeding habitat are essential for sustaining the local population.
Copyright (c) 2026 K.K. Junaina, A.P. Rashiba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A nesting attempt by Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus in an inland wetland in Kachchh District, Gujarat, India
India is home to the two flamingo species – Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus and Lesser Flamingo Phoeniconaias minor. Saline mudflats (Rann) of the Kachchh landscape in western India support the largest breeding sites of flamingos in Asia. In 2019, we conducted a wetland survey across Kachchh between January and December 2019 and recorded nesting of Greater Flamingos in Ratnal, a freshwater irrigation tank. Around 400 Greater and 700 Lesser Flamingos were observed foraging at this site on 25 July 2019. We recorded a total of 35 mud mounds, the morphometrics of 10 intact mounds were taken, and the mean height was 26.4 (± 2.38) cm, and the circumference was 28.4 (±1.36) cm. These measurements closely matched the published dimensions of Greater Flamingo nests, indicating the species likely constructed them. The courtship displays of both species were observed during the study period; however, no eggs were laid. Further, the nests were abandoned following heavy rainfall in August 2019. We monitored the wetland for the next three years, 2020–2023, but no further nesting attempt was recorded. This observation likely represents a false nesting attempt by Greater Flamingo and highlights potential flexibility in nest-site selection, underscoring the importance of systematic monitoring of freshwater wetlands, and they may serve as both breeding and non-breeding habitats.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gaurav Sirola, Harindra Baraiya, Rajdeep Mitra, Anju Baroth, R Suresh Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
New record of cob-web spider species Steatoda albomaculata (De Geer, 1778) (Araneae: Theridiidae) from Kachchh, India with detailed distribution of Indian species of Steatoda Sundevall, 1833
The species Steatoda albomaculata (De Geer, 1778) is reported for the first time from Gujarat, India. A detailed diagnosis is provided to distinguish S. albomaculata from other congeners, supported by comprehensive illustrations of the female reproductive organ and an updated map of Indian distribution of the species of the genus Steatoda Sundevall, 1833 is provided.
Copyright (c) 2026 Subhash I. Parmar, Vivek U. Chauhan, Ketankumar Yogi, Pranav J. Pandya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Rapid increase in artificial-substrate nesting by White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster (Gmelin, 1788) (Aves: Accipitriformes: Accipitridae) in Tamil Nadu, India
White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster is a coastal apex predator whose nesting ecology is associated with the availability of tall trees along water bodies. An increase in anthropogenic pressure along the southeastern coast of India has led to nesting adaptations, including the use of artificial substrates. Here, unusual observations on four nests constructed on artificial structures within a single breeding season (2025–2026) in Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, of which three were successful are reported. Only one artificial substrate nest was recorded in the previous decade. This represents a notable increase compared to previous records from the region and suggests a potential behavioural shift. Nesting activity patterns, breeding success, and conservation implications in the context of habitat modification and ecological traps are discussed.
Copyright (c) 2026 H. Byju, N. Raveendran, H. Maitreyi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
First successful post-release breeding of captive-bred White-rumped Vultures Gyps bengalensis (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae) in the wild at Buxa Tiger Reserve, India
The population of White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis declined catastrophically across South Asia during the 1990s due to diclofenac poisoning, prompting captive-breeding programmes aimed at eventual species recovery through reintroduction. Between 2021 and 2023, the Buxa Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre and Aviary in West Bengal released 31 captive-bred individuals into Buxa Tiger Reserve. In 2023, six released birds formed three pairs and constructed nests; one pair (tags N3 ♂ and P6 ♀) successfully hatched and fledged a chick after a 112-day nestling period in 2024. The two remaining nests failed during incubation, likely due to first-breeder failure. This represents the first confirmed post-release reproduction of captive-bred Gyps bengalensis in India, and the second documented site globally — successful breeding by captive-bred released birds was previously reported only from Nepal. This observation provides initial evidence that captive-bred individuals can successfully reproduce when released into an NSAID-safe landscape.
Copyright (c) 2026 Soumya Sundar Chakraborty, Debal Ray, Apurba Sen, P.J. Harikrishnan, Nabi Kanta Jha https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Theileriosis in a captive Indian Gaur Bos gaurus: a rare encounter
This study describes fatal theileriosis in two captive Indian Gaurs Bos gaurus housed at Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Patna, Bihar, India. Both animals exhibited high fever, anorexia, lethargy, congested mucous membranes, subcutaneous haemorrhages and enlarged lymph nodes and subsequently succumbed to the disease. Post-mortem examination revealed enlarged lymph nodes, characteristic punched-out abomasal ulcers and petechial haemorrhages in multiple visceral organs. Diagnosis was confirmed by detection of Koch’s blue bodies in lymph node smears, histopathological lesions consistent with Theileria infection and PCR analysis. The findings highlight the occurrence of severe, fatal theileriosis in captive gaur and emphasize the need for timely diagnosis and effective control measures in zoological settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kaushal Kumar, Vishal Kumar Sinha, Deepak Kumar, Imran Ali, Ramesh Tiwary, Pankaj Kumar, Amit Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Foraging postures and techniques used by the White-bellied Heron Ardea insignis Hume, 1878 (Aves: Pelecaniformes: Ardeidae) in Namdapha Tiger Reserve, India
The White-bellied Heron Ardea insignis occurs in Bhutan, India, and Myanmar. Bhutan supports the majority of the known global population (approximately 30 individuals), followed by India (around 10 individuals), while only a few individuals occur in Myanmar. The population continues to decline across its range, posing a serious threat to the species’ survival. This heron is unique in preferring fast-flowing freshwater rivers, yet its foraging behaviour remains poorly understood. As a fish-eating bird, a continuous supply of freshwater fish is essential for its survival and reproduction. From 2013 to 2017, its foraging behaviour was studied in Namdapha Tiger Reserve, the only site in India where most individuals are found. The aim was to understand how this visual predator forages in fast-flowing rivers, where strong currents make prey detection and capture difficult. It was found that the heron employs a variety of postures and techniques to cope with these conditions. Using continuous focal sampling, individuals were observed and documented their body postures and prey capture methods through photography. Over approximately 850 h of observation, the herons were seen feeding exclusively on fish. Their foraging behaviour was strongly influenced by water current, requiring specific techniques to maximise prey capture. The birds displayed distinctive movement patterns and postures to avoid detection by prey and to handle captured fish effectively. Some postures were associated with unsuccessful capture attempts. This study highlights previously undocumented feeding behaviours, which are important for developing conservation strategies aimed at protecting the species and its specialised habitat.
Copyright (c) 2026 Himadri Sekhar Mondal, Gopinathan Maheswaran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Importance of integrating multiple criteria in breeding habitat management for urban frogs and toads (Amphibia: Anura) in Jakarta City, Indonesia
This study assessed the local and landscape factors that support breeding habitats for native frog species in Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. We surveyed 25 wetlands categorized into two management states and varying local and landscape features. Our results revealed that frog species exhibit diverse habitat preferences for breeding; some species prefer constructed or managed environments, some depend on more natural or minimally managed habitats, and one species was highly linked with vegetation cover and light intensity. These findings emphasize the need to incorporate multiple criteria when designing strategies to support breeding habitats for all native frog species in Jakarta. We also explored specific factors influencing breeding site selection, providing insights into the drivers of breeding habitat preferences in urban environments.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohamad Isnin Noer, Ivan Hafidhuddin, Agung Sedayu, Ratna Komala, Alvira Salsabila https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
First photographic record of Naumann’s Thrush Turdus naumanni Temminck, 1820 from Assam, India
Naumann’s Thrush Turdus naumanni Temminck, 1820, is a Palearctic thrush that undertakes regular winter movements into eastern Asia and occasional irruptive southward dispersals; these movements track resources, support population connectivity, and signal large-scale weather/climatic displacements. The Brahmaputra Valley’s grassland–agroecosystem mosaics are important reception and foraging areas for such Palearctic vagrants. On 13 January 2026, a female T. naumanni was photographed at Panbari, Dhemaji District (~105 m elevation); detailed images and expert review confirmed a pure individual (extensive rufous-orange underparts, pale supercilium, brown-rufous chest streaking, pale brown upperparts, and no hybrid wing panels). This is the first confirmed photographic record for Dhemaji District and an unusually low-elevation winter occurrence for India, underscoring the value of targeted winter monitoring of open grassland/agro-habitats and systematic photographic documentation to distinguish pure versus hybrid thrushes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pulakeswar Basumatary https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
First photographic record of the Himalayan Red Panda Ailurus fulgens (Mammalia: Carnivora: Ailuridae) in Yordi Rabe Supse Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh, India
The Himalayan Red Panda Ailurus fulgens, an endangered species of the eastern Himalaya, is threatened by habitat loss, fragmentation, and limited ecological data across parts of its range. In Arunachal Pradesh, despite extensive suitable habitat, confirmed records from several protected areas remain scarce. Here we present the first confirmed photographic evidence of the Red Panda Ailurus fulgens from the Yordi Rabe Supse Wildlife Sanctuary (YRSWS) using camera traps. The species was recorded at elevations of 2,409 m and 2,848 m in high altitude temperate forest habitats characterized by dense multi-layered vegetation with a moist understory, providing important field-based confirmation of the species’ presence in a previously undocumented area. These records highlight the conservation significance of YRSWS and emphasize the need for further systematic monitoring and strengthened protection of its habitats in central Arunachal Pradesh.
Copyright (c) 2026 Yomto Mayi, Shantabala Devi Gurumayum, Salvador Lyngdoh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A comparative web-traffic analysis of three renowned wildlife conservation organisations - International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) are among the leading wildlife organisations that provide significant scientific information. These organisations, through their highly data-centric and interactive websites, communicate conservation and have been accessed by an audience base across the globe. Each part of the world encounters a diverse range of conservation-related issues. Analysing the communication strategies of each of these websites can provide key insights into the domain of wildlife conservation pedagogy. This study is based on quantitative web analytics utilising web tools and software that provide insights such as attributes and visual portraits on the engagement of the audience of these websites, trending search topics, audience engagement, learning behaviours, website performance, user behaviour analysis, and communication strategies. WWF recorded the highest monthly visits (≈ 1.56 million) but the highest bounce rate (68.63%), whereas IUCN recorded the longest mean visit duration (2 min 21 s). The findings describe how the three organisations’ publicly reported web-traffic profiles differ in audience geography, search-term composition, social-referral mix and engagement metrics and discuss the limits of inferring audience intent from aggregate analytics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Saswat Pati, V. Vijay Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
First record of the Sistan Sand Boa Eryx sistanensis Eskandarzadeh et al., 2020 (Reptilia: Serpentes: Erycidae) from India
We report the presence of Sistan sand boa Eryx sistanensis, a species known from Iran and Pakistan, from northern parts of Thar desert of northwestern India by presenting detailed diagnosis of three live individuals from Rajasthan. Data obtained from the Indian individuals offers moderately updated definition of E. sistanensis and helps distinguishing it more effectively from its look-alike, Eryx johnii by comparing their morphology in life. Additionally, based on our past findings and sightings posted in social media and from wildlife colleagues from our network, we hint its wider presence in the low rainfall areas of three states of northwestern India, including Haryana and Punjab, apart from Rajasthan.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vivek Sharma, Dharmendra Khandal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Succession of biofouling organisms on structural materials and their environmental drivers off the Kalpakkam coast, India
The settlement and succession of marine fouling organisms were monitored on three structural materials—stainless steel (SS), titanium (Ti), and fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP)—over a 300-day static immersion in coastal waters of Kalpakkam along the eastern coast of India. Barnacles were found to be initial settlers, with 15 fouling species identified during the study period. The final climax community was dominated by green mussels, hydroids, and barnacles on all three substrates. Biofouling load was the highest on FRP (23.6 kg/m²), followed by SS (20.11 kg/m²) and Ti (16.19 kg/m²) after 300 days of exposure. Interestingly, green mussels colonized after 150 days of exposure signifying their preference for cues from the substratum. Correlation analysis revealed strong relationships between environmental parameters and fouling loads. Temperature and salinity were positively correlated (r = 0.874), while temperature and dissolved oxygen showed a negative correlation (r = -0.646). FRP surfaces supported the highest diversity and biomass accumulation compared to Ti and SS surfaces. Results of the study indicate material-specific differences in biofouling loads and findings have implication in the choice of material selection for cooling water system as well as for offshore aquaculture structures.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bandita Badakumar, D. Inbakandan, P. Sriyutha Murthy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The need for rigorous peer-review of Environmental Impact Assessments: a case from the Western Ghats, India
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are vital exercises for evaluating the effects of proposed activities on the environment and human well-being. In many countries, including India, they often suffer from incomplete biodiversity information and data manipulation. These issues are compounded by a lack of scientific rigour, independent review, and sufficient public participation—problems that are especially critical in biodiversity hotspots. This paper examines a ‘Cumulative Impact Assessment’ by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) published in 2025, for the double-tracking of an existing railway line passing through Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park in Goa, and Kali Tiger Reserve in Karnataka—both part of the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot. The WII EIA was compared with the Indian Institute of Science’s (IISc) ‘Biodiversity and Environmental Assessment’ study that was previously prepared in 2017 for the same project. It was found that while the new EIA by WII addressed some of the gaps of the previous EIA, it failed to make a comprehensive assessment of projected biodiversity loss, leaving out some important taxonomic groups such as freshwater fish, insects, arachnids, and fungi, and failing to address its own study objectives, such as identifying critical wildlife habitats. It also neglected social impacts, despite widespread public opposition in Goa. The WII EIA fundamentally functions as an incomplete species inventory with mitigation measures, implying a conditional approval for the railway project. It does not assess loss in landscape-level connectivity, fragmentation of wildlife corridors, changes in human–wildlife interactions, and impacts on human health. This comprehensive review supports the call put forth by other scientists globally for the need for rigorous, independent peer reviews of EIAs, especially for projects with severe ecological and socio-economic consequences, planned in biodiverse and irreplaceable landscapes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Malaika Mathew Chawla, Sinead D’Silva, Madhushri Mudke, Anushka Rege, Nisha Bhakat, Nandini Velho, Vidyadhar Atkore, R. Sahanashree, Jerusha D'Souza, Aparna Kolekar, Anuja Date, Anish Paul, Aayush Gupta, Karthik Teegalapalli, Giridhar Kulkarni, Pronoy Baidya, Ajinkya Bagal, Katrina Fernandez, Omkar Dharwadkar, Parag Rangnekar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Addition of five lesser known angiosperm species from Mizoram, India
Five angiosperm species, Cajanus elongatus (Benth.) Maesen (Fabaceae), Crotalaria meghalayensis Danda & A.K.Pandey (Fabaceae), Mycetia malayana (G.Don) Craib (Rubiaceae), Microchirita karaketii D.J.Middleton & Triboun (Gesneriaceae), and Peliosanthes griffithii Baker (Asparagaceae) are reported as new distribution records for Mizoram, India. Species identification was confirmed through detailed morphological examination, supported by relevant literature and herbarium studies. Comprehensive taxonomic descriptions, distribution data, and photographic documentation are provided.
Copyright (c) 2026 R. Lalthantluanga, Dorothy Lalbiakhluni, Vanlalawmpuia Sailo, Rose Laldinaii Darnei, R. Lalhruaitluangi, Sanatombi Devi Yumkham, Sandhyarani Devi Khomdram https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Lotus Nelumbo cultivations of Beehama Ganderbal offer novel habitats for diversity and seasonal variation of wetland birds
Conversion of marshy paddy fields into Nelumbo (lotus) gardens by the farmers of Beehama Ganderbal, Jammu & Kashmir has not only increased their livelihood and economy but also started yielding ecological dividends although unintentionally, because these Nelumbo gardens, along with adjoining Salix cultivations are now serving as alternative and rich habitats for the thriving of wetland birds. The present study was designed to assess the wetland bird assemblages in these artificial Nelumbo gardens to understand the species composition and richness along with their seasonal variation from March 2023 to February 2025. The study revealed that these artificial Nelumbo gardens can act as potential alternative feeding and breeding grounds for the diversity of wetland birds when main wetlands are shrinking due to anthropogenic activities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sheikh Tanveer Salam, Fayaz Ahmad Ahanger, Showkat Ahmad Wani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Photographic record of the Eastern Bronzeback Tree Snake Dendrelaphis cf. proarchos (Wall, 1909) from Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Uttar Pradesh, India
The Eastern Bronzeback Tree Snake Dendrelaphis proarchos (Wall, 1909), widely distributed across the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, including northeastern India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, northern Laos, northern Vietnam, and southern China. In India, the species has been documented from several northeastern states, such as Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, and West Bengal through museum and field records, with a few possibly human-mediated reports from western and central India (e.g., Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh). However, its occurrence in Uttar Pradesh has remained uncertain due to the absence of verifiable photographic or voucher-based evidence. Here, this study reports a photographic record of Dendrelaphis cf. proarchos from Uttar Pradesh, based on a road-killed individual recorded from the core area of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. This sighting records the occurrence of Dendrelaphis cf. proarchos in Uttar Pradesh and contributes to a refined understanding of snake diversity in the Terai Arc Landscape.
Copyright (c) 2026 Vipin Kapoor Sainy, Aqsa Jaseem, Rohit Ravi, Apoorva Gupta, H. Raja Mohan, R. Jagadeesh, Kirti Chaudhary https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0