Update on Kashmir Stag Population:
After a two-year span, there is promising news regarding the Hangul, the unique Kashmir stag and the official state animal of Jammu and Kashmir. Recent data indicates a modest increase in its population, marking a positive trend in its conservation efforts.
Insights into the Kashmir Stag:
Commonly known as Hangul, this majestic creature is a subspecies of the Central Asian red deer and is exclusive to the Kashmir region and its surroundings. Typically inhabiting dense riverine forests in the elevated valleys and mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as northern Himachal Pradesh, the Hangul is a symbol of the region’s biodiversity.
Noteworthy Habitats:
While its primary sanctuary is the Dachigam National Park in Kashmir, where it benefits from protective measures, there have been sightings of a smaller population in the Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary in south Kashmir.
Conservation Status:
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Hangul as “Critically Endangered,” underlining the urgency of preserving this unique species. Additionally, it is listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) Appendix I.
Dachigam National Park Highlights:
The park’s allure lies in its diverse landscapes, featuring deep valleys, rocky outcrops, steep wooded slopes, and rolling alpine pastures. Nestled in a mountainous terrain, Dachigam National Park experiences a significant variation in altitude, ranging from 1600 meters to 4200 meters above sea level.
Flora Diversity:
The park boasts an exceptionally rich flora, including varieties such as Wild Cherry, Pear, Plum, Peach, Apple, Apricot, Walnut, Chestnut, Oak, and Willow.
Fauna Diversity:
Apart from the iconic Hangul, the park is a habitat for various species like Musk deer, Brown Bear, Leopards, Jungle Cats, Himalayan black bear, and a few species of wild goats like the markhor and ibex.
This update reflects the ongoing efforts in safeguarding the Kashmir Stag and preserving its natural habitat in iconic locations like the Dachigam National Park.
Summary
The Hangul, named after the Indian horse-chestnut it fondly consumes (han doon in local vernacular), showcases a distinctive and majestic presence. As herbivores, their diet consists of grass, herbs, leaves, barks, and twigs. The name “Hangul” is also linked to their impressive antlers, referred to as “heng” colloquially.
Recognized by a white rump patch, expansive antlers, and a small tail, these creatures are often called red deer due to their reddish-brown coat, varying with the seasons. Male Hanguls, darker than females, reach sexual maturity at three, while females can mate at two. During the September to October breeding season, males engage in competitive behaviors like roaring, fighting, and displaying their antlers to attract mates. Rutting calls and raised muzzles play a role in this pursuit.
Hanguls’ quiet nature is marked by the absence of boisterous calls outside the breeding season. The gestation period lasts eight months, and fawns stay with their mother until the next breeding season. Similar to elephants, Kashmir stags exhibit a matriarchal society led by a female. Females live in groups of up to 18, while adult males lead independent lives. This gentle yet majestic species contributes to the rich biodiversity of its habitat.
