Kaziranga Emerges as Key Stronghold for Vulnerable Fishing Cat

First Scientific Assessment Reveals Healthy Fishing Cat Population

The first dedicated scientific assessment of the fishing cat ( Prionailurus viverrinus ) has established Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve as a major habitat for the globally vulnerable species. Drawing on camera-trap images from the all-India tiger estimation exercise, researchers documented 57 distinct individuals across more than 450 sq. km of the reserve. The findings were released on 22 February, commemorated as Fishing Cat Day.

Landmark Population Evidence

The study was undertaken by Kaziranga’s Tiger Cell in collaboration with the Fishing Cat Project. Its central aim was to evaluate the population status of the elusive wetland predator within Kaziranga, a reserve primarily recognised for its one-horned rhinoceros. The results indicate a stable and reproducing population with broad spatial distribution.

Researchers caution that the estimate may be conservative, as the camera-trap grid was optimised for tiger monitoring rather than small felids.

Conservation Status and Ecological Role

The fishing cat is categorised as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and enjoys the highest legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Specialised for aquatic hunting, the species occupies wetlands, floodplains, marshes and mangroves. In Assam, it is locally known as “Meseka” and is often regarded as an indicator of wetland ecosystem integrity.

Distribution Across Indian Landscapes

Data from the Fishing Cat Project identify Kaziranga as the leading population centre within the Terai floodplain belt. Other important freshwater habitats include Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve and Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Among estuarine systems, the Sunderban Tiger Reserve hosts the largest known population, followed by Chilika Lagoon, Bhitarkanika National Park and Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary.

Important Facts for Exams

• Fishing cat ( Prionailurus viverrinus ) is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

• It is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

• The species is a wetland specialist adapted for aquatic hunting.

• Kaziranga National Park is located in the Brahmaputra floodplains of Assam.