A study published in the Journal of Wildlife Science has identified Orang National Park in Assam as an important stronghold for hog deer, recording densities of up to 121.58 individuals per square kilometre in grassland habitats.

• The study was conducted by researchers from the Wildlife Institute of India, under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in collaboration with the Assam Forest Department.

Key Findings

• Researchers used 123 camera traps and 120 kilometres of line-transect surveys to study hog deer distribution, density and activity patterns.
• Hog deer densities were considerably higher in grasslands than in woodlands, mainly because grasslands provide abundant forage and better visibility.
• Hog deer were predominantly active during the day, with activity peaking in the early morning and evening. 
• Researchers suggested that this pattern may indicate relatively low hunting pressure.
• Grasslands cover approximately 44–67 % of Orang National Park, while woodlands account for around 19–26 per cent.

Why Is Orang Suitable for Hog Deer?

• The Brahmaputra floodplain ecosystem supports productive grasslands because seasonal floods replenish soil nutrients and encourage fresh vegetation. 
• Wetlands and moist grasslands also provide food and water during dry periods.
• Intensive anti-poaching patrols, habitat management and control of invasive plants may further support the species.

However, woodland encroachment and grassland degradation could reduce suitable feeding areas and threaten the park’s high hog deer density.

About Hog Deer

• Gets its name from the hog-like manner in which it runs with its head hung low.
• Solitary creature but sometimes spotted feeding in small groups in open fields when food there is plentiful.
• Habitat
• Prefer dense forests; however, they are often observed in clearings, grasslands and occasionally wet grasslands.
• Distribution: Native geographic range throughout India, including the Himalayan foothill zone and Southeast Asia, including Burma and Thailand.
• Humans have introduced free-ranging populations of this deer in Sri Lanka, Australia and the United States, including Texas, Florida, and Hawaii.
• Conservation status
  • IUCN Red List: Endangered
  • Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Scheduled I

Exam Hook: Key Takeaway

Orang National Park demonstrates how seasonal flooding, productive grasslands and effective protection can support endangered wildlife in the Brahmaputra floodplain.

Prelims Practice Question

Consider the following statements:

1. Hog deer is classified as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.
2. Hog deer densities recorded in Orang were higher in grasslands than in woodlands.
3. Seasonal floods can replenish soil nutrients and support grassland productivity.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. Only 1 and 2

B. Only 2 and 3

C. Only 1 and 3

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3

One-line wrap: Protecting Orang’s grasslands is essential to sustaining its endangered hog deer population and the wider Brahmaputra floodplain ecosystem.