Himalayan Serow: Habitat, Distribution, Conservation Status and UPSC Environment Facts

Category: Environment & Ecology → Wildlife → Mammals

Why in News?

The Himalayan serow has been reported in discussions on Himalayan biodiversity and wildlife conservation.

Key Facts

  • Scientific name: Capricornis thar
  • Common name: Himalayan serow
  • Mammal belonging to the bovid family Bovidae.
  • It is intermediate in appearance between a goat and an antelope.
  • Found across parts of the Himalayas and adjoining mountain regions.
  • Habitat includes:
    • Steep mountain slopes
    • Forested areas
    • Rocky terrain
    • Subalpine habitats
  • Generally solitary or found in small groups.
  • Primarily herbivorous.

Conservation

  • Threats include:
    • Habitat loss
    • Hunting
    • Fragmentation
    • Human disturbance

UPSC Key Pointers

  • Himalayan serow → Mountain ungulate
  • Family → Bovidae
  • Scientific name → Capricornis thar
  • Habitat → Himalayan forests and steep terrain
  • Do not confuse it with the Himalayan goral, another mountain ungulate.