Illegal Hunting is a Major Threat to Important Wildlife Species of Mangla Dam Freshwater Reservoir

Abstract

One of the major cause of biodiversity loss on a global scale is the overexploitation of biological resources. Illegal hunting at Mangla Dam Wetland is the focus of the present investigation, which aims to determine its extent and root causes. Field surveys, primary and secondary data collection, and scheduled meetings with relevant departments, communities, and hunters made up the research. Over a decade, from 2011 to 2020, five different areas of Mangla Dam were monitored for instances of hunting birds, reptiles, and mammals. In 2013, there were 793 recorded cases of hunting, and in 2019 and 2020, there was a dramatic fall in hunting (COVID-19). Pangolins, migratory birds, wild boars, jungle hares, and scorpions were among the most sought after and illegally hunted animals. During the research, 6416 instances of illegal hunting were documented. In 2013, the hunting index reached its peak of 22 during the past decade. Game hunting, the ease of obtaining firearms (12 bore and repeater), the desire to make money by locals and animal dealers in response to poverty, poor law enforcement, and a general lack of knowledge were the primary drivers of illicit wildlife hunting. This prompted the government to take decisive action in safeguarding animals through the implementation of stringent regulatory frameworks and conservation initiatives.