Latest news with #Lantanacamara
Time of India
26-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Bengaluru concern: Human-wildlife conflicts soar 183%; elephants, big cats spark fear near villages, farms
BENGALURU : Karnataka has recorded a staggering 183% rise in human-wildlife conflict (HWC) incidents over the past five years, raising serious concerns for both govt and forest department. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now From a few hundred reported cases in 2019 to several thousand by the end of 2024, the escalation involves several species, especially in southern Western Ghats. A recent study titled 'Geospatial Identification of Human-Wildlife Conflict Hotspots in the Southern Western Ghats', published in 'Indian Society of Remote Sensing' journal, examined over 34,000 HWC incidents across Karnataka from 2019 to 2023. The research, conducted by experts from premier institutes in Karnataka and Telangana, identified conflict clusters and hotspots, providing valuable insights for future management strategies. The study shows the govt disbursed about Rs 27 crore in compensation to victims during this period. While 17 animal species were involved in conflict cases, nearly 98% were attributed to elephants, tigers, and leopards. Other incidents also involved wild boars, gaurs, spotted deer, peacocks, and sloth bears. Contrary to the belief that animals invade human areas mainly in summer seeking food and water, the study found that the highest number of incidents — 30.9% — occurred during the monsoon months of July to Sept, followed closely by Oct to Dec (29.4%). GM Pavithra, one of the researchers, said: 'The trend is largely due to high density of invasive species such as 'Lantana camara' and 'Senna spectabilis', which not only obstructs animals' movement but also deprives them of food. Monoculture plantations in the past have also contributed in a significant way.' Destroyed crops accounted for 97.8% of damage caused by elephants, with gaurs responsible for 1.4%. Almost all conflicts occurred in agricultural lands, plantations, or orchards. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The study highlighted proximity as a key factor, noting, 'Over 5,000 incidents were reported close to human settlements, ranging from 100m to 500m. While elephant-related conflicts were common at all distances, carnivores (tigers, leopards) were seen within 100m of human settlements.' Infrastructure development also exacerbates the problem. 'Roads disrupt wildlife movement patterns, exacerbating crop depredation due to increased accessibility of cultivated food sources along the corridors,' the report stated. It further noted that conflicts with elephants were more frequent at higher elevations (750 to 1,000m), whereas carnivore-related incidents occurred mostly at lower elevations (500 to 750m) near forest edges.
The Hindu
06-06-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Invasive species removed in Gudalur as part of World Environment Day celebrations
As part of World Environment Day celebrations, the Gudalur forest division conducted a clean-up of invasive plants from outside reserve forests on Thursday. In a press release, the Gudalur forest division said the theme for World Environment Day this year was 'Putting an end to plastic pollution' and 'No invasive Nilgiris.' The Forest Department said the initiative will be the first of many undertaken this year to eradicate plastic waste from forests and adjoining areas and to also minimise the spread of invasive species such as Lantana camara. In Masinagudi forest division in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, World Environment Day was celebrated by distributing tree saplings and seedlings, planting of trees and creating awareness among the public about the need to keep the tiger reserve free of plastic and waste. Passing tourists were stopped at the reserve by forest staff and were involved in the initiative to improve awareness among the public.
Yahoo
04-04-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Forest authorities sound alarm as unexpected species spreads at alarming rate: 'Immediate intervention is crucial'
The Indian state of Haryana is facing a silent takeover. Experts are sounding the alarm as invasive plant species, especially one called Lantana camara, have spread uncontrollably through the region, pushing out native plants and threatening the health of the entire ecosystem. According to a report from the Times of India, 12% of the state's forest land has been overtaken by invasive species, with Lantana camara being one of the biggest challenges. This tropical American shrub, originally imported by the British, is now crowding out native vegetation across local forests. Experts warn that "immediate intervention is crucial," as the invasive spread is choking native plant growth, altering soil chemistry, increasing fire risks, and disrupting the ecosystem. If left unchecked, the damage could become irreversible. Invasive species like Lantana aren't just bad for the environment — they are a major headache for nearby communities. These plants are incredibly difficult to remove, regrow quickly, and suffocate native plant life that local wildlife and people depend on. Managing these invaders is labor-intensive and expensive. Poorly managed landscapes also increase fire hazards and human-wildlife encounters. For example, the Times of India has previously reported how Lantana camara infested tiger habitats. Not only did this threaten the tigers' survival, it increased chances they might wander outside the habitat to find space and resources — which is dangerous for people. Native plants help keep ecosystems in balance. They support pollinators, regulate water cycles, prevent soil erosion, and support food chains. As these species are overtaken, biodiversity and pollinators struggle — putting crops and food security at risk. Scientists are exploring innovative techniques to control invasive species such as targeted genetic technology and restoring biodiversity. In previous instances of Lantana camara invasion in India, ecologists developed a new method to get rid of them. The "cut rootstock method" introduces a hormonal imbalance to the plant, and once they're removed, conservationists can reintroduce native plants. Not only is the method effective, the remaining dried wood can be used as firewood. Homeowners can also make a difference by rewilding their yards and choosing native plants or eco-friendly landscaping. Swapping traditional turf for buffalo grass, clover lawns, or xeriscaping not only saves water and money, but also supports pollinators and reduces maintenance. In Haryana, experts are urging the government to prioritize removal initiatives to deal with invasive species. Should we be actively working to kill invasive species? Absolutely It depends on the species I don't know No — leave nature alone Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. "Also, implementing strict monitoring and introducing educational campaigns can raise awareness about these ecological challenges," Professor Anjal Prakash said to the Times. "Such comprehensive policy measures are essential to preserve ecological balance and ensure long-term health of forest ecosystems." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Axios
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
Life-size elephant herd exhibit coming to Hermann Park
One hundred and one life-size elephant sculptures will be showcased in Houston's Hermann Park in April. Why it matters: The herd of Indian elephant sculptures has been migrating across the country to raise money for Indigenous and community-led conservation efforts. "The Great Elephant Migration" will be on view through April, after stops in New York City, Miami and Newport, Rhode Island. How they're made: Indigenous Indian artisans from the Real Elephant Collective craft the sculptures from an invasive weed called Lantana camara. They range in weight from about 176 pounds for a calf to about 880 pounds for a tusker, which also measures 15 feet long. The intrigue: For the first time, the original herd of 100 elephant sculptures will be joined by the biggest elephant yet in Houston. The massive tusker was modeled after a real Kenyan elephant who was a true giant of the African savanna, towering at 10 feet tall and weighing over 6 tons. Stunning stat: The invasive Lantana camara has entangled 300,000 square kilometers of India's forests, diminishing food sources for herbivores. It is also invasive in Texas, where it disrupts native ecosystems. "The Great Elephant Migration is more than an art installation — it is a call to action and a place to experience joy," said Cara Lambright, president and CEO of Hermann Park Conservancy. "By bringing this breathtaking global effort to Hermann Park, we are inviting our community to be part of a worldwide movement to protect ecosystems, eradicate invasive species, and inspire change," Lambright said. "These are shared values that span continents."
