Dehing-Patkai elephant count soars by 77% in 7 yrs (Dibrugarh) Rajib Dutta, Times of India March 12, 2025 Population of wild Asian elephants in Assam's Dehing Patkai National Park has surged by 77% over the last seven years, revealed a comprehensive wildlife survey. Divisional forest officer (DFO) of Digboi Forest Division, Ranjith Ram, on Wednesday said the Asiatic elephant count increased from 196 in 2018 to 348 in 2025 — a significant milestone for conservation efforts in the region. "The growth in elephant numbers validates our improved habitat management and long-standing conservation measures within the park. Thriving elephant populations reflect a healthy ecosystem, as these ‘ecosystem engineers' benefit numerous other species. This milestone is a win for biodiversity," said Ram. The camera trap survey, which involved the installation of over 200 trail cameras across the park, captured images and videos of elusive species such as clouded leopard and marbled cat. These tools, triggered by motion, provided insights into animal behaviour and population trends without human interference. The findings further cemented Dehing Patkai's reputation as a biodiversity hotspot. "Dehing Patkai is now home to eight wild cat species, including the rare clouded leopard and marbled cat, making it one of the most significant habitats for felines in the region," Ram added. The DFO also highlighted another success story of the barking deer, whose numbers have rebounded significantly. "Just three to four years ago, the barking deer population was alarmingly low. Today, we're seeing a substantial increase in their numbers across the park. Our ongoing conservation strategies is focusing on habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement. We're working to ensure that this positive trend continues," Ram said. Officially designated as a national park in 2021, Dehing Patkai spans 231.65 sq km across Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts. Known as the "Amazon of the East", the park's rainforest ecosystem is home to endangered species such as tigers, leopards, and hoolock gibbons. Its fauna includes nearly 50 mammal species, 47 reptile species, and 310 butterfly species, underlining its status as a key conservation area in northeast India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/dehing-patkai-elephant-count-soars-by-77-in-7-yrs/articleshow/118946201.cms