Dehradun: A two-year biodiversity assessment of the Gangotri landscape conducted under the Secure Himalaya project of the Uttarakhand Biodiversity Board revealed that it is home to a slew of species including 203 birds, 86 butterflies, 250 moths and 70 wildflowers. The survey was initiated in 2021 and the results were announced this week.According to the survey, some of the birds and butterflies were sighted after 50- 60 years at Gangotri landscape which is famous for rich coniferous forests, alpine meadows and glaciers. Some include feathered guests like Brown Accentor near Bagori, Rufous-backed Redstart in Sukhi, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide and Ibisbill. Experts explored different areas like Bhaironghat, Gartangali, Barsu, Harsil, Bagori, Cholmi and Dharali during the survey.Founder trustee of Titli Trust Sanjay Sondhi, who was among the assessors, said, There is increased religious tourism on this landscape. There is significant potential for nature-based tourism which will not only generate livelihood but also conserve the region.During the survey, biodiversity management committee members of different villages helped experts understand the value and need for a sustainable mode of earning money to protect flora & fauna. Harsil valley is the only breeding site of Ibisbill, much sought-after by birdwatchers. Its habitat is very unique as it needs slow-flowing rivers at high altitude for sustenance. Therefore, its conservation should be a top priority, said Sondhi.Dhananjai Mohan, chairman, Uttarakhand Biodiversity Board, said, Among the rare species of butterflies were Highbrown Fritillary Argynnis jainadeva jaindeva, orange-spotted mountain hopper carterocephalus Avanti, fiery clouded yellow colias eogene. We also published the following articles recentlyGangotri landscape home to 203 bird, 86 butterfly species: SurveyA biodiversity assessment conducted in the Gangotri landscape revealed the presence of various species, including birds, butterflies, moths, and wildflowers. Some of these species were sighted after several decades. The survey highlighted the potential for nature-based tourism in the area, which could generate livelihoods and conserve the region. The survey also emphasized the need for sustainable means of earning money to protect the flora and fauna. Additionally, it emphasized the importance of conserving unique habitats like the breeding site of the Ibisbill in the Harsil valley.Ukhand biodiversity board holds meet on Himalayas conservationThe Uttarakhand Biodiversity Board organized a conference on the conservation of the Himalayas, attended by locals from 29 Biodiversity Management Committees. The event aimed to assess the progress made by communities in Uttarkashi and Pithoragarh districts under the SECURE Himalaya project. Training on sustainable livelihoods and skills development were provided to the communities, and successful individuals shared their learnings. Forest minister Subodh Uniyal and senior forest department officials also attended the meeting to discuss ongoing schemes and address grievances.CTRs orchid survey uncovers rare, threatened speciesA recent survey conducted in the Corbett Tiger Reserve has uncovered rare and threatened orchid species, including the sought-after Checkered Vanda. This species is used in tantric rituals and has international demand. The survey was conducted across different zones in Corbett to understand the diversity of orchids in each area. The location of the Checkered Vanda is being kept confidential due to its demand and usage.

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