An alarming sighting of a Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus) near illegal coal mining operations in Margherita, Assam, has highlighted the devastating impact of deforestation and environmental degradation on wildlife.
The endangered bear, typically found in Southeast Asia's tropical forests, was spotted by residents near the Makumpani area and the Margherita Tea Estate.
Conservationists believe this unusual occurrence is a direct consequence of habitat loss due to rampant illegal coal mining and deforestation activities.
Debojit Moran, the General Secretary of Green Bud Society, an NGO based in Digboi, expressed alarm over the situation.
He pointed out that the rampant illegal coal mining and deforestation have not only displaced the Sun Bear but also various other wildlife species including leopards, elephants, tigers, monkeys, and pythons.
Moran called upon the Assam Chief Minister, the Assam Forest Minister, the Digboi Divisional Forest Officer, and all relevant forest department officials to urgently address this critical issue before irreversible damage occurs to the region's biodiversity.
The Sun Bear, native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, is the smallest bear species, typically measuring around 70 cm at the shoulder and weighing between 25 to 65 kg.
Its distinctive features include a stocky build, large paws, strongly curved claws, small rounded ears, and a short snout.
Designated as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), the Sun Bear faces multiple threats, primarily stemming from habitat loss and hunting.
Additionally, human-wildlife conflicts arise as Sun Bears often raid crops and target livestock, leading to conflicts with local communities.
Moreover, they are subjected to poaching for their gall bladders and other body parts, driven by demand in traditional medicine practices.
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