Gujarat: Sloth-like 4.37% rise in bear numbers in seven years
According to experts, this is the lowest increase for an endangered species in the state
From 343 in 2016 to 358 in 2023, the sloth bear population in Gujarat has increased by just 4.4% in seven years according to the census carried out by the Gujarat forest department.
The tribal districts known for their bear populations such as Narmada, Dahod and Panchmahal have shown significant declines in their numbers.
According to experts, this is the lowest increase for an endangered species in the state.
The increase of 4.4% since 2016 is not acceptable, as in absolute terms their population rose by just 15. The rate of increase between 2011 (293 bears) and 2016 (343) was 22%.
Principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife) Nityanand Srivastava said the count was indeed 358, an increase of just 4.4% from 2016.”
A senior officer said the count raised eyebrows, as it appears that the number of sloth bear deaths in these seven years have been much greater than reported.
Officials said what was surprising was that Narmada (78.26%), Panchmahal (50%) and Dahod (5.61%) districts registered declines.
Officials said that in absolute numbers, the population rose by 25 bears in Banaskantha, and 12 in Sabarkantha.
A senior officer said the sloth bear population increase has not been at the same magnitude as the increases reported in wild asses and lions.
Officials said that in Central Gujarat, the sloth bear population has stabilized in Dahod and Chhota Udepur districts. In 2016, the three tribal districts of Dahod, Chhota Udepur and Narmada had 184 sloth bears but in 2023 this number fell to 167, or 17 fewer animals.
