An Overview of Declining Population of Blackbuck in Bihar and other States of India

Abstract

Antelope cervicapra, is an Indian antelope species known for its distinctive black and white colour with males possessing spiraled horns. According to the Red Data Book of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Antelope cervicapra (Blackbuck) species is categorized as least concern. The research paper explores how blackbuck interacts with the environment and its contribution in shaping ecosystem. The survival of the blackbuck is threatened by several factors including the invasion of exotic species, habitat destruction, overgrazing, urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural expansion. Illegal hunting, poaching, road accidents, and habitat destruction have led to a significant decline in blackbuck population. In this article, a concise review of the literature is covered on the decreasing population of blackbucks in India especially in Bihar due to various natural and anthropogenic reasons, which subsequently would identify the need to conserve the blackbuck population and gather scientific evidence at the smaller level to help in making policies and strategies by the government agencies for the conservation of biodiversity, in the participative of Sustainable Development Goals suggested and adopted by the United Nations in 2017. In view of the above, if any area is been covered under the protected area it would be helpful in the conservation of the species. To increase the population of the species and ensure their survival, it is crucial to study genetic variation and create a specialized rescue center for the species. Such measures can contribute to the population growth and preservation of species' genetics and population.