Rare Dholes Return to Assam's Barnadi Sanctuary

Guwahati: Wild dogs, also known as dholes, are back in Assam. Field observations and camera-trap evidence confirmed the presence of the social carnivores in the Barnadi Wildlife Sanctuary. This marks a major win for conservationists in the Udalguri district. The sanctuary covers 11.25 square kilometers near the Bhutan foothills. It was established in 1995.

Dholes were once common in the area but faced heavy persecution during the 19th century. They are now rare across northeastern India. Their return suggests that prey populations are recovering and habitat conditions are improving. The pack hunters rely on distinct whistling communication to survive. Officials say the sightings prove natural recolonisation works when protection improves. "The dhole sightings indicate that natural recolonisation is possible when habitat connectivity and protection improve."

Barnadi remains a vital link for wildlife. Large mammals, including elephants, use the sanctuary as part of wider movement corridors. The site is famous for the rediscovery of the pygmy hog during the 1980s. A 2016 release program for that species failed to establish a long-term population, but recent community engagement and monitoring efforts have changed the trend. Experts now plan to ramp up anti-poaching patrols. They will also manage grasslands through controlled burns and invasive species removal.

Long-term survival requires steady work. Officials plan to team up with research institutions and NGOs to track animal movements. They will expand surveys using pugmarks and camera traps. The goal is to secure a stable future for the dhole and other species that call these grasslands home.