JAGTIV · Previous Year Questions

UPPSC

ENVIRONMENT · 2023

Previous Year Question

Hangul-deer is found in which part of India?

A.

In Rajasthan

B.

In Kerala

C.

In Jammu and Kashmir

D.

In Assam

Correct Answer: C

Detailed Solution

Hangul, also known as the Kashmir Stag, is found in India primarily in the Kashmir Valley region of Jammu and Kashmir. Its scientific name is Cervus hanglu hanglu, while older scientific literature also refers to it as Cervus elaphus hanglu. It belongs to the deer family (Family Cervidae) and represents a distinctive member of the Red Deer group found in the Indian subcontinent. It is recognized as the State Animal of Jammu and Kashmir.

Dachigam National Park is the principal natural habitat of the Hangul. It is located approximately 22 kilometres from Srinagar in the Zabarwan Range of Jammu and Kashmir. The park covers approximately 141 square kilometres and was declared a National Park in 1981. Hangul inhabits mountainous forests, Riverine Forests, shrublands, and Alpine Meadows. Besides Dachigam, small groups are also found in certain adjoining protected areas of Kashmir.

The major physical characteristic of the Hangul is the large, branched Antlers of the male deer, which commonly have 11 to 16 Points. Female Hangul do not possess such antlers. Its body colour ranges from brown to reddish-brown and may vary with age and season. It is primarily a Herbivorous animal that depends on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation. Its activities and habitat utilization are influenced by season, altitude, and food availability.

Hangul is a highly threatened wildlife species, whose population has been affected by Habitat Fragmentation, Poaching, Overgrazing, and pressure from human activities. It receives protection under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. The 2025 census conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Wildlife Protection recorded 323 Hangul, compared with 127 individuals in 2008. Conservation efforts particularly focus on protecting Wildlife Corridors connecting Dachigam with surrounding habitats.

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