Monal moves higher and changes call pitch to avoid human encroachment in Uttarakhand
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims·
Anthropogenic pressure and climate change leading to behavioral adaptations in Himalayan biodiversity: a GS3 Environment case study.
Why in news
Researchers at Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University found that the Himalayan Monal is shifting to higher altitudes and altering its vocalizations to adapt to human encroachment and noise pollution in Uttarakhand.
Background
A five-year study by researchers from Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University in Uttarakhand revealed behavioral adaptations in the Monal. Climate change projections through 2100 indicate significant habitat shrinkage for the species across Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Facts for Prelims
- EnvironmentMonal: A bird species observed to be shifting to higher altitudes in Uttarakhand to avoid human encroachment.
- FactClimate change projections through 2100 suggest habitat shrinkage for Monal in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
- PlaceHemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University: Academic institution in Uttarakhand conducting wildlife studies.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the Himalayan Monal in the Himalayan region, consider the following statements:
- Climate change projections indicate habitat shrinkage for the species through the year 2050.
- The species is shifting to higher altitudes to avoid human encroachment and noise pollution.
- Significant habitat shrinkage is projected for the species across Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (d) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The projections indicate habitat shrinkage through the year 2100.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how anthropogenic pressures and climate change are forcing behavioral adaptations in Himalayan biodiversity and the implications for conservation strategies.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Anthropogenic pressure: Habitat fragmentation and noise pollution forcing niche shifts in high-altitude avian species.
- Climate-driven shrinkage: Reduced viable habitats in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh threatening long-term species viability.
- Behavioral adaptation: Alteration of vocal pitch and duration as a survival mechanism against human-induced noise.
Keywords: Anthropogenic pressure · Habitat fragmentation · Behavioral adaptation · Climate change projections · Biodiversity conservation
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