Efforts of the conservationists to conserve Takin have paid-off after two calves were born last month. The Takin preserve in Mothithang, Thimphu was started in 1975 with two Takins. Over the years the number multiplied and reached 16 in 1989. The number, however, dwindled to seven in 2006.
The Chief of the Wildlife Conservation Division, WCD, said the drop in the number is due to inbreeding depression.“When we keep animals in the enclosed areas for number of years, scientifically, what we have learnt is inbreeding takes place. So when we have this inbreeding for number of years with the same breeds, what we have is the offspring which is genetically inferior. When we have cases like this the survival of the animal is very minimal,” says Sonam Wangchuk.
He said the wildlife rescue team re-introduced wild Takins from the Jigme Dorji National Park to improve the breeds. With that the number increased to 16 once again including the two newcomers. There is no record of the Takin population in the country but concerned agencies are monitoring the population.
Recently Takins have been spotted in Thrumshingla Park. He added when it comes to conservation of the endangered species human wildlife conflict is one of the major challenges faced by the conservationist.
“Our country has a very free ranging policy where people can graze wherever they want. On the other hand our country is very rich in biodiversity. So when it comes to endangered species we are not able to curb the problem of human wildlife conflict as for example the tiger, elephants and all frequently come in conflict with human. So we are not able to find 100% solution but we are trying our best,” says the Chief.
For now the Conservationists are happy with the two newcomers.
The Bhutan Takin is one of the four species of Takin. Apart from Bhutan it is said to be found only in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.
