Context
- The Government of Meghalaya has launched a dedicated conservation mission for the Clouded Leopard, the State Animal of Meghalaya.
Key Fact About Clouded Leopard
The Clouded Leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) is a medium-sized wild cat native to the forests of South and Southeast Asia. It is known for its distinctive cloud-shaped markings, exceptional climbing ability and elusive behaviour.
Distribution
In India, the Clouded Leopard is primarily distributed across the Northeastern states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim, with its range also extending to parts of North Bengal (West Bengal).
Habitat
- Tropical and subtropical evergreen forests
- Moist deciduous forests
- Montane forests
- Dense forest canopies
Key Features
- State Animal of Meghalaya.
- One of the best climbers among wild cats.
- Possesses long canine teeth, proportionately the longest among living felids.
- Solitary and primarily nocturnal.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (Highest level of protection)
Major Threats
- Habitat loss and fragmentation.
- Poaching for skin, bones and teeth.
- Human-wildlife conflict.
- Decline in prey population.
About Meghalaya Clouded Leopard Mission
- The Meghalaya Clouded Leopard Mission is a dedicated conservation programme launched to protect the Clouded Leopard, the State Animal of Meghalaya.
- Guided by the Meghalaya Clouded Leopard Action Plan, the initiative focuses on habitat protection and restoration, scientific research, long-term population monitoring, capacity building of frontline forest staff, and community participation.
- It also aims to reduce habitat degradation, poaching and illegal hunting through a landscape-based conservation approach.
Conclusion
- Meghalaya’s Clouded Leopard Mission reflects a landscape-based and community-driven approach to wildlife conservation. For UPSC, it is important not only because of the recent initiative but also due to the species’ conservation status, legal protection and distribution in India’s biodiversity-rich Northeast.
| Important CTC from This Article for UPSC Clouded Leopard |
Q. With reference to the Clouded Leopard, consider the following statements:
1. It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
2. It is included in Appendix I of CITES.
3. It is the State Animal of Meghalaya.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation
• Statement 1: Correct. The Clouded Leopard is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN.
• Statement 2: Correct. It is listed under Appendix I of CITES, providing the highest level of international trade protection.
• Statement 3: Correct. The Clouded Leopard is the State Animal of Meghalaya.