Jaldapara: In a major step towards strengthening conservation efforts, the Jaldapara Wildlife Division has introduced a scientific wildlife monitoring programme across Jaldapara National Park by deploying an extensive network of trap cameras.
Under the programme, a combination of Infra-Red (IR) and white flash cameras has been installed to document a broad range of wildlife, including species that are nocturnal and difficult to observe. For systematic monitoring, the park area has been divided into 105 grids, each covering two square kilometres. The grid design takes into account terrain features, habitat linkages, wildlife movement routes, and areas of human activity.
To ensure effective surveillance, two double-sided cameras have been placed within each grid, helping to capture animal movement more accurately and reducing data gaps. The installation process has been completed across all designated locations. ad1
Forest officials stated that the information collected through this exercise will be crucial for informed park management and future conservation planning. The data will support assessments of wildlife population status, distribution, and relative abundance, while also providing insights into movement patterns and habitat use, particularly in ecologically sensitive and high-activity areas.
Additionally, the camera network will assist in strengthening protection measures by identifying important wildlife zones, thereby enhancing anti-poaching efforts. It will also contribute to evidence-based decisions related to habitat improvement, grassland management, and corridor conservation, along with long-term tracking of biodiversity trends and the effectiveness of management interventions.
The initiative reflects the Forest Department’s continued focus on adopting modern technology and scientific methods to safeguard the rich biodiversity of Jaldapara National Park. ad2
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