World Environment Day: 8 India’s Native Species Face Silent Extinction

As we observe World Environment Day, it’s important to reflect not only on pollution and deforestation but also on the silent disappearance of India’s native wildlife.

Home to more than 7% of the world’s biodiversity, India’s forests, wetlands, and grasslands once echoed with the sounds of countless unique species. Today, many of these animals and birds are dangerously close to extinction.

Great Indian Bustard: Once found across India’s grasslands, the Great Indian Bustard is now critically endangered. With fewer than 150 individuals remaining, habitat destruction and collisions with power lines are the main threats. It is now mostly restricted to parts of Rajasthan.

Himalayan Musk Deer: This shy, high-altitude deer is known for the musk gland in males, which is prized in illegal wildlife trade. Poaching and habitat loss have pushed this species onto the endangered list.

Hangul (Kashmir Stag): Native to Jammu & Kashmir, the Hangul population has dwindled to under 250. Habitat degradation in the Dachigam National Park and competition with livestock are the main concerns.

Malabar Civet: A nocturnal animal once found in the Western Ghats, the Malabar Civet is feared to be possibly extinct, with no confirmed sightings in recent years. Rampant deforestation is believed to be the cause.

Ganges River Dolphin: India’s national aquatic animal is under threat from river pollution, dam construction, and illegal fishing. Only about 3,500 remain in the wild.

Salim Ali’s Fruit Bat (Latidens salimalii): One of the rarest bats in the world, it is found only in the Western Ghats and is at high risk due to habitat degradation.

Forest Owlet: Thought to be extinct for over a century, the Forest Owlet was rediscovered in 1997. Still critically endangered, its survival depends on strict forest protection.

Nicobar Megapode: A unique ground-dwelling bird endemic to the Nicobar Islands, the megapode builds giant nesting mounds. Rising sea levels and human interference threaten its survival.