Wildlife Protection

Explanation

The Indian Flying Fox does not fall under the 'vermin' category in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. However, it is true that the Indian Flying Fox feeds on the blood of other animals. This makes Statement-I incorrect and Statement-II correct.

Explanation

Lions do not have a particular breeding season because they can reproduce throughout the year. Male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking, unlike male lions who use scent marking to establish their territory.

Explanation

Lion-tailed Macaque, Malabar Civet, and Sambar Deer are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset. Nocturnal animals are those that are primarily active during the night. These species have adapted to be more active during the night to avoid predators and competition for resources during the day.

Explanation

Orangutans are known to make tools with sticks to scrape insects from holes in trees or logs of wood. This behavior showcases their intelligence and ability to use tools for foraging purposes. Orangutans are one of the few non-human species known to engage in such tool-making behavior, highlighting their adaptability and problem-solving skills in their natural habitat.

Explanation

In a 'Community Reserve', hunting is prohibited to protect wildlife. However, the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State does not become the governing authority; instead, the local community plays a significant role in conservation efforts. The community members are usually allowed to collect non-timber forest produce, and traditional agricultural practices may be permitted to ensure sustainable land use.

Explanation

In India, wild animals are considered the property of the government, as per the Wildlife Protection Act. When a wild animal is declared protected, it is entitled to equal protection whether it is found in protected areas or outside. This ensures that the conservation efforts extend beyond just designated protected areas to safeguard wildlife populations across various habitats.

Explanation

Renuka Wetland in Himachal Pradesh and Rudrasagar Lake in Tripura are correctly matched locations. Hokera Wetland is in Jammu and Kashmir, not Punjab, and Sasthamkotta Lake is in Kerala, not Tamil Nadu. This makes only two pairs out of the four given correctly matched.

Explanation

In India, only the Asiatic lion is naturally found. The double-humped camel can also be found in Central Asia, while the one-horned rhinoceros is also found in Nepal. The correct statement among the given options is (a) 1 only.

Explanation

The Desert National Park in India spans across two districts, Jaisalmer and Barmer. There is no human settlement within the park. This park serves as a natural habitat for the Great Indian Bustard. The correct statements are that it is spread over two districts and is a natural habitat for the Great Indian Bustard, making option (c) 1 and 3 only the correct answer.

Explanation

Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve has the largest area designated as 'Critical Tiger Habitat' among the options provided. It covers a total of 3721 square kilometers, while Sunderbans has 1699.62 square kilometers designated as Critical Tiger Habitat.

Explanation

Placing a plant species under Schedule VI of The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 means that individuals are not permitted to cultivate that plant without obtaining a license from the Chief Wild Life Warden.

Explanation

In the case of Indian elephants, the female is typically the leader of the group, known as the 'matriarch'. The maximum gestation period for an elephant can extend up to 22 months. Elephants can usually continue to give birth until they reach the age of 40. The state with the highest elephant population in India is Karnataka, followed by Assam and then Kerala. Therefore, the correct statements are 1 and 2 only.

Explanation

In the Cauvery basin, which spans Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Pondicherry, certain Protected Areas are situated. Papikonda National Park is actually located in Andhra Pradesh, making option 2 incorrect. However, Nagarhole National Park is indeed found in Karnataka within the Cauvery basin, making it a valid selection.

Explanation

Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh is renowned for its conservation efforts of a sub-species of the Indian swamp deer known as the Barasinga. This particular deer thrives in hard ground and feeds exclusively on grass.

Explanation

The musk deer is commonly found in high-altitude environments, particularly in the colder regions of the Himalayas. Given that Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Uttar Pradesh, it is less likely to be a natural habitat for the musk deer.

Explanation

Among the national parks listed, the Valley of Flowers is the one that is entirely situated in the Temperate alpine zone.

Explanation

The correct statement is that the Asiatic lion is naturally found only in India. This means that the double-humped camel and one-horned rhinoceros are not exclusive to India.

Explanation

In the given pairs, the Blue finned Mahseer is correctly matched with the Cauvery river, while the Irrawaddy dolphin is not found in the Chambal river but in the Chilika lagoon and salt-water estuaries of Odisha. The Rusty spotted cat is actually found in the Eastern Ghats. Therefore, the correct match among the pairs is 1 and 3 only, making option (c) the correct answer.

Explanation

In the Forest Rights Act of 2006, the concept of 'Critical Wildlife Habitat' is defined. The Baigas have been granted Habitat Rights for the first time in India. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is responsible for officially determining and announcing Habitat Rights for Primitive and Vulnerable Tribal Groups across the country. The correct statements are 1 and 2 only, as indicated by option (a). Baigas are recognized as a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) under the Indian Constitution. In 2016, they made history by becoming the first community in India to receive habitat rights.

Explanation

The Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Pakke Tiger Reserve, is situated in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

Explanation

In the provided pairs, the Blue-finned Mahseer is accurately matched with the Cauvery River, while the Irrawaddy Dolphin is correctly linked with Chilika Lake. However, the Rusty-spotted Cat is not specifically found in the Eastern Ghats but in central and southern India. Therefore, the correct matches are options 1 and 2 only, making the correct answer (a).

Explanation

India's Desert National Park is located in both Jaisalmer and Barmer districts. The park does not have any human settlements within its boundaries. It is known as a natural habitat for the Great Indian Bustard. The correct statements about the park are that it is spread over two districts and it is a habitat for the Great Indian Bustard.

Explanation

The term 'M-STRIPES' has been in the news in connection with the National Tiger Conservation Authority's plan to introduce a new computerized monitoring system for tigers in all reserves. This system is called Monitoring System for Tiger, Intensive Patrolling and Ecological Status (MSTrIPES).

Explanation

There was a recent suggestion to move some lions from Gujarat to another location. While Corbett National Park and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary were ruled out due to unsuitable climate, Sariska National Park was also not considered ideal as it is a tiger reserve. The correct site for translocating the lions was determined to be Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary.

Explanation

If a species of tortoise is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in India, it signifies that it receives the same high level of protection as the tiger under this law. The correct option in this context is (a) - It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.

Explanation

In accordance with the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, certain animals are protected from hunting unless specific provisions in the law allow for it. The animals listed in the question - Gharial, Indian wild ass, and Wild buffalo - fall outside the category of animals that can be hunted. Therefore, the correct answer is option (d) - 1, 2, and 3.

Explanation

Gharials, river-dwelling creatures that primarily feed on fish, can be best observed in their natural habitat at the Chambal Sanctuary, which hosts the only sustainable population of these reptiles.

Explanation

The Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve assumes importance as a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats from an ecological perspective. This reserve is located in Tamil Nadu and plays a crucial role in connecting the two mountain ranges.

Explanation

TRAFFIC is not part of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), as stated in the first statement. It is actually a collaborative program between WWF and IUCN. The second statement is accurate, as it aligns with the organization's official mission to safeguard the conservation of nature by regulating trade in wild plants and animals.

Explanation

The correct answer is option (b) Keibul Lamjao National Park. This national park, located in Manipur, stands out for being a swamp with floating vegetation known as phumdis, which supports a diverse range of wildlife.

Explanation

Keibul Lamjao National Park, situated in Manipur, is distinct as the only floating park globally in North East India, covering an area of 40 km and forming an essential part of Loktak Lake.

Explanation

The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) is not an official part of the United Nations, but it holds observer and consultative status within the UN.

Explanation

The dugong, a marine mammal found in India, is a herbivorous creature that lives in the ocean. It is not only protected by law under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, but it is also found along the entire coast of India.

Explanation

The Gangetic dolphin has been recognized as the National Aquatic Animal of India. This designation was officially given to the Ganges River Dolphin by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on May 18, 2010.

Explanation

The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is an independent organization that focuses on conserving nature through practical research, education, and raising public awareness. They also arrange nature trails and camps for the general public. The correct statements are 2 and 3, which means that it is not an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

Explanation

In this question, we are presented with three pairs of wildlife sanctuaries and their corresponding states. Dampa Tiger Reserve is correctly matched with Mizoram. Saramati Peak, with a height of 3,826 m, is located in Nagaland. However, Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary is actually located in Tripura, not Sikkim as stated. Therefore, the correct pairings are Dampa Tiger Reserve with Mizoram and Saramati Peak with Nagaland, making option (c) 1 and 3 only the correct answer choice.

Explanation

Apart from poaching, the decrease in the Ganges River Dolphin population can also be attributed to the building of dams and barrages on rivers, accidental entrapment in fishing nets, and the application of synthetic fertilizers and agricultural chemicals in fields near the rivers. These factors contribute to the decline of these dolphins.

Explanation

When walking through the countryside, you may observe birds that follow cattle to catch insects stirred up by the animals moving through the grass. Which of the following birds exhibit this behavior? 1. Painted Stork 2. Common Myna 3. Black-necked Crane. Choose the correct answer from the options provided. (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 (d) 3 only. The correct answer is (b) - the Common Myna is the bird that stalks alongside cattle to capture insects.

Explanation

Eco-Sensitive Zones are designated areas under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Their purpose is to restrict various human activities in these zones, with the exception of agriculture.

Explanation

The Animal Welfare Board of India was formed in 1962 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The National Tiger Conservation Authority is legally established. The National Ganga River Basin Authority was set up by the Indian government on February 20, 2009. The Prime Minister serves as the chair of this Authority.

Explanation

The lion-tailed macaque is naturally found in the mountain forests of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. These monkeys are endangered according to the IUCN.

Explanation

Among the options provided, the Star tortoise, Monitor lizard, and Pygmy hog are the species naturally found in India. Star tortoises inhabit dry and scrub forests, while Pygmy hogs are endangered animals located in Assam. Monitor lizards can be found in India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. Spider monkeys, on the other hand, reside in the tropical forests of Central and South America.

Explanation

In the given pairs, the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve is correctly matched with the Garo Hills, located in Meghalaya. However, the Loktak Lake is not associated with the Barail Range as it is situated in Manipur. Similarly, Namdapha National Park is correctly matched with the Dafla Hills, both of which are located in Arunachal Pradesh. This makes option (a) - 1 only - the correct choice.

Explanation

In India, the Gharial, Leatherback turtle, and Swamp deer are all considered endangered species. The Gharial is critically endangered as per the IUCN, while Leatherback turtles are endangered due to human activities. Similarly, Swamp deer is also listed as an endangered species globally.

Explanation

Among the protected areas listed, Bandipur, Manas, and Sunderbans have been designated as Tiger Reserves.

Explanation

Local residents are prohibited from collecting and using biomass in national parks in India.

Explanation

Among the groups of animals listed, the Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda, and Asiatic Wild Ass are categorized as endangered species.

Explanation

The Oryx thrives in hot and arid regions, while the Chiru is suited to inhabit steppes and semi-desert areas in cold high mountains.

Explanation

The decline in the population of vultures in the Indian countryside can be traced back to the use of a drug by cattle owners to treat their sick livestock. This drug has had a negative impact on the vultures, leading to their reduced numbers in the wild.

Explanation

Indian Panorama is a topic that includes a variety of unique wildlife species. Among the choices provided, the Black-necked crane, Flying squirrel, and Snow leopard are all naturally found in India. The Cheetah, however, is not naturally found in the country. Therefore, the correct answer is option (b), which includes the Black-necked crane, Flying squirrel, and Snow leopard.

Explanation

In India's Odisha state, the Bhitarkanika Mangroves are a significant mangrove wetland that spans 650 km2 in the river delta formed by the Brahmani and Baitarani rivers.

Explanation

In a sandy and saline environment in India, a certain animal species resides without any predators. However, the destruction of its habitat poses a threat to its survival. The animal in question could potentially be the Indian wild ass.

Explanation

Botanical gardens and zoos are commonly used for ex-situ conservation, while biosphere reserves, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries are natural habitats that support in-situ conservation efforts. Botanical gardens are not sites for in-situ conservation of flora.

Explanation

In Bhiterkanika, Orissa, the protected area is known for the Salt Water Crocodile. The Desert National Park in Rajasthan is famous for protecting the Great Indian Bustard. Eravikulam National Park in Kerala is dedicated to conserving the Hoolak Gibbon species. The correctly matched pairs are Bhiterkanika - Salt Water Crocodile and Desert National Park - Great Indian Bustard.

Explanation

In a National Park, the boundaries are determined by legislation and officially designated by the state government. Biosphere Reserves are established to protect entire ecosystems, not just specific plant and animal species.

Explanation

The Animal Welfare Board of India was established in 1962 and has its headquarters in Chennai.

Explanation

In India, the saltwater crocodile is present in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It can reach lengths of 6-7 meters and is found from Sri Lanka to Papua New Guinea, North Australia, and the Solomon Islands. Shrew and tapir, on the other hand, are found in the Western Ghats of the Malabar region, not the Himalayan range.

Explanation

Elizabeth Hawley, an American ex-journalist, gained fame for her documentation of Himalayan expeditions.

Explanation

The crocodile is the only animal among the listed options that is included in the Red book or the list of endangered species.