Mon Mar 03 19:17:16 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu’s Unsung Wildlife Heroes: Conservation Efforts Highlight Lesser-Known Species

**Chennai, March 4, 2025** – While iconic animals like lions and tigers often dominate wildlife conservation narratives, Tamil Nadu is spotlighting its less celebrated species this World Wildlife Day. The state’s Forest Department, along with researchers and local communities, is undertaking significant conservation initiatives for animals like the Eurasian otter, various soft-shell turtles, and the grey slender loris.

Ecologist Albert Peter Christopher of ATREE highlighted the plight of the Eurasian otter, found along the Tamirabharani river, which is listed as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN. These keystone species are vital for maintaining ecosystem balance, and Christopher’s research also includes work on soft-shell turtles in the Cauvery delta.

Research by Jason D. Gerard, under Deepak Veerappan, revealed the surprising coexistence of Cantor’s Giant Soft-shell turtle, Leith’s Soft-shell turtle, freshwater crocodiles, and otters near the Grand Anicut dam, even without a protected area. This finding underscores that protected areas alone are insufficient; community involvement and education are key to long-term conservation.

In the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, Vandana Kannan of the Keystone Foundation is collaborating with indigenous Urali and Sholiga communities to protect the grey slender loris and pangolins. Their research, documented in the book “Ozhudurukka Paradu Mekka – The Hidden Forest Creatures,” emphasizes the importance of local participation in understanding and protecting these nocturnal mammals. The book highlights the biodiversity of the Sathyamangalam Hills. These collaborative efforts showcase a multifaceted approach to conserving Tamil Nadu’s rich biodiversity beyond the commonly known flagship species.

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