Pygmy Hog Latest News
India’s pygmy hog is vanishing from its grasslands, just as it is needed the most
About Pygmy Hog
- It is the smallest and rarest species of wild pig in the world.
- It is one of the very few mammals that build its own home, or nest, complete with a ‘roof’.
- It is an indicator species as its presence reflects the health of its primary habitat.
- Habitat: It prefers undisturbed patches of grassland dominated by early succession riverine communities, typically comprising dense tall grass intermixed with a wide variety of herbs, shrubs and young trees.
- Currently, they survive only in the grasslands of Assam’s Manas and Orang national parks.
Ecological Role of Pygmy Hog
- Using its snout, it digs for roots, tubers, wild fruits, termites, earthworms, eggs and other food sources found in the grasslands.
- This digging aerates the soil and enhances its quality.
- It also helps disperse seeds through its dietary and foraging habits.
Conservation Status of Pygmy Hog
- IUCN: Critically Endangered
- The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
Source: DTE
Pygmy Hog FAQs
Q1: What is the conservation status of Pygmy Hog?
Ans: Critically Endangered
Q2: Where is the primary habitat of Pygmy Hog?
Ans: Manas National Park, Assam
