The Gaur is also known as the Indian Bison and locally called ‘Govo Reddo’ is a majestic creature native to the lush forests of the Western Ghats in India. It is the state animal of Goa and needs to be protected. Once flourishing in large numbers, habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict have rashly dwindled their populations. These gentle beasts are now classified as vulnerable, facing an uncertain future without concerted conservation efforts.
A controversial incident happened in February 2016, Gaur was listed to be declared as “nuisance animal” along with the Peacock, the wild boar and the monkey. The state animal of Goa, Gaur was to be tagged a ‘nuisance animal’ because they were creating problems for farmers, and destroying their cultivation. This did not go down well with environmentalists. They opposed the idea and soon it was taken off from the list.
“Gaur populations in Maharashtra and Goa are threatened by multiple factors which are anthropogenic. Habitat loss due to conversion of forests for agriculture, infrastructure, and mining is reducing their living space. Poaching for meat, horns, and hides remains a danger despite their protected status in WLPA (Wildlife Protection Act) 1972. Additionally, diseases like foot-and-mouth disease can harm gaur populations, treatment are given to farm cattle but wild calves didn’t get enough attention due to which we can see decline in young population. Competition with livestock for food and resources in forests adds to the pressures on this majestic species. Moreover, Habitat fragmentation lead to the end of Gaur’s corridor in Western Ghats resulting in decline of population,” says Jaydeep Prakash Bhelke, Wildlife Researcher from Mumbai, Maharastra.
Similarly, the Ghar (Monitor Lizard), with its ancient charm, is an essential component of ecosystems across Asia and Africa. Despite their adaptability, these reptiles are not immune to the perils of habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and persecution. As a result, several species of monitor lizards are listed as threatened or endangered, highlighting the urgent need for their protection.
Wayne LJ Fernandes, an environmentalist from Assolna says, “The impressive monitor lizard, once a common sight in Goa and across India, is facing a silent threat. While these adaptable reptiles have thrived for millions of years, human actions are pushing them towards a precarious position. The decline of monitor lizards in Goa is primarily due to poaching for their skins, meat, fat and blood. In Goa, their skins were traditionally used for the ‘Ghumot,’ a percussion instrument. Though banned, the practice persists in some areas. Their meat is consumed as a delicacy or for perceived medicinal benefits. Poachers exploit their vulnerable basking behavior during monsoon seasons, making them easy targets. Human-wildlife conflicts and retaliatory killings also pose a direct threat to the survival of monitor lizard species. Another factor is habitat loss due to the rapid expansion of agriculture, infrastructure, and urbanization shrinks their natural habitat. Pollution from pesticides and industrial waste further disrupts the delicate food chain, affecting their prey availability. Their absence would disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem.”
Ghars (Monitor lizards) are Goa’s invaluable possession. The belly skin of it was used to make the drum head of a local percussion instrument called ‘ghumot’. Thousands of monitors were slaughtered for this purpose. Many were and are also killed for extracting their body parts which is used in traditional remedies. Although, Ghar is protected by the law, still these cruel and illegal practices continue in some villages of Goa.
Amrut Singh, an animal rescuer from Bicholim says, “Hunting during the months of breeding have highly affected the population of ghar in Goa. These local hunters along with their dogs go for hunting and hurt their natural habitat. This is done especially during the month of September, October and November. Government has to come up with some rules to protect this species. Till now, only good thing that is done is banning the use of ghar skin to make the ghumot.”
On this World Endangered Species Day, it is important to recognize the vital role these species play in maintaining ecological balance. The Gaur, is a keystone species, influencing vegetation and supports diverse flora and fauna within its habitat. Likewise, the Ghar (Monitor Lizard) regulates insect populations and serves as a crucial pointer of ecosystem health.
“Gaur is the state animal of Goa, so it is very special for us. In the bovine family which includes cows and bulls, this is the largest bovine in the world. It is an animal unique to its species. It’s a very interesting animal on many grounds and since it is our state animal we have the duty to protect it. Ghar widely known as monitor lizard is a threatened and much protected species in the country. In Goa, it is used a lot especially, the skin which is used in making the ghumot. People say that the sound produced from this skin is very unique. In the recent times, goat skin has been used to make the ghumot. It has to be protected also as its meat is said to be very tasty. There is a false assumption that the blood of ghar can be used to cure asthma. It is extremely important to protect this species. I personally have a soft spot for it,” says animal rescuer and wildlife enthusiast Aaron Fernandes from Siolim.
Conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding these iconic species must consist of habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, community engagement, and scientific research. Collaborative efforts involving governments, conservation organizations, local communities, and the public are paramount in ensuring their survival.
In the state of Goa, where both the Gaur and the Monitor Lizard reside, positive conservation measures are gaining importance. Protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries provide important refuges for these species, while awareness campaigns educate the populace about their ecological significance. Furthermore, ecotourism initiatives offer sustainable alternatives that promote the coexistence of wildlife and human communities. As individuals, one can contribute to the conservation cause by supporting ethical tourism, advocating for wildlife-friendly practices, and defending environmental policies that prioritize biodiversity protection. By fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and recognizing one’s interconnectedness with all living beings, one can strive towards a future where the Gaur, the Monitor Lizard, and countless other species thrive in harmony with humanity.
On this World Endangered Species Day, it is important to commit to preserving biodiversity and safeguarding a heritage of conservation for generations to come. The fate of the Gaur and Ghar (Monitor Lizard) is tangled with Goans. There is a need for attention and urgency of action needed in the face of environmental challenges.
