Population of Critically Endangered Kashmiri Hangul Shows Positive Growth

 

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Population of Critically Endangered Kashmiri Hangul Shows Positive Growth

By Home Academy

The Kashmiri Hangul (Cervus hanglu hanglu), also known as the red deer of Kashmir, has shown a remarkable recovery according to the 2025 census, with its population rising to 323 individuals. This is an increase from 289 in 2023, 237 in 2019, and a historical low of 127 in 2008. The growth is mainly concentrated in Dachigam National Park and the Tral Wildlife Sanctuary, reflecting the success of long-term conservation strategies.

Key Highlights of Hangul Population Growth

• Recent Growth: 323 in 2025, up from 289 in 2023 and 237 in 2019, indicating a steady upward trend.

• Long-Term Recovery: The population has gradually improved from a critical low of 127 in 2008, though it remains far below historical numbers (~5,000 in the early 20th century).

• Conservation Efforts:

  • Effective habitat protection in Dachigam and Tral.

  • Operation of the Conservation Breeding Centre at Shikargah, Tral.

  • Stricter anti-poaching measures and monitoring by the Wildlife Protection Department.

• Challenges: Despite progress, the Hangul remains critically endangered. Persistent threats include habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and limited genetic diversity.

The consistent rise in population demonstrates that sustained conservation measures can positively impact even critically endangered species. Continued efforts are essential to ensure the Hangul does not slip back into decline.

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MCQs for Exams

1. What is the recorded population of the Kashmiri Hangul in the 2025 census?
   A) 289
   B) 323
   C) 237
   D) 127
   Answer: B) 323

2. Which areas in Jammu & Kashmir are the primary habitats of the Hangul?
   A) Dachigam National Park and Tral Wildlife Sanctuary
   B) Gulmarg and Pahalgam
   C) Sonamarg and Kupwara
   D) Kishtwar and Bhaderwah
   Answer: A) Dachigam National Park and Tral Wildlife Sanctuary

3. When did the Kashmiri Hangul reach its lowest population in recent decades?
   A) 2008
   B) 2019
   C) 2023
   D) 2025
   Answer: A) 2008

4. Which of the following is a key conservation initiative for the Hangul?
   A) Afforestation in urban areas
   B) Conservation Breeding Centre at Shikargah, Tral
   C) Hunting regulations in local villages
   D) Introduction of non-native species
   Answer: B) Conservation Breeding Centre at Shikargah, Tral

5. Despite population growth, why is the Hangul still considered critically endangered?
   A) The population is genetically weak and habitat loss continues
   B) It is being overhunted for meat
   C) It cannot survive outside Dachigam National Park
   D) It migrates to other states frequently
   Answer: A) The population is genetically weak and habitat loss continues

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