Q. With reference to the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, consider the following:
- Named after the famous Hindu temple of Kedarnath, it spreads across four districts of Uttarakhand.
- Known for protecting the endangered Himalayan musk deer, also called Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary.
- It lies in the upper catchment of the Alaknanda and Mandakini Rivers.
Which of the above is/are endangered species listed on the IUCN Red List?
Answer:
Only 2 & 3
Notes:
- Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in Uttarakhand, India, established to conserve biodiversity and protect endangered species.
- The KWS, famously known as the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary, is located in the Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts of the state of Uttarakhand.
- It lies in the upper catchment of the Alaknanda and Mandakini Rivers.
It was named after the famous Hindu temple of Kedarnath, which lies outside the northern border of the sanctuary.
- Its alternate name comes from its primary purpose of protecting the endangered Himalayan musk deer.
- The Himalayan Musk Deer is known for its unique musk gland, which is highly valued in traditional medicine and perfumery, contributing to its endangered status.