Indian bison population surges in Bandhavgarh; forest buffalo returns to Kanha

Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh has recorded a significant increase in its gaur population, with numbers now estimated between 220 and 240 individuals, marking a notable recovery for the Indian bison species in the protected area.

The population growth reflects successful habitat management and conservation strategies implemented over recent years. Gaur, the world's largest wild cattle species, are found across the Indian subcontinent but face threats from poaching and habitat loss. Bandhavgarh's expanding population demonstrates the potential for species recovery within well-managed forest reserves.

In parallel conservation efforts, Kanha National Park in the same state has commenced a forest buffalo restoration programme. Eight wild buffalo have been translocated to Kanha as part of the reintroduction initiative, aiming to re-establish the species in areas where it historically thrived.

Both projects underscore the growing emphasis on species reintroduction and population management across India's protected area network. These efforts contribute to broader biodiversity conservation goals in central India's tiger reserves and national parks, which serve as critical sanctuaries for endangered wildlife.