Himalayan Serow: The National Animal of Nepal

What is Nepal’s National Animal?

The national animal of Nepal is the cow-like Himalayan serow, also known as “dhreka” in Nepali. This animal is native to the Himalayas and can be found in Nepal, India, Bhutan, and China. The Himalayan serow is a medium-sized ungulate with a stocky build and a coarse reddish-brown coat. It has a short tail and a distinctive beard, which is more prominent in males. Himalayan serows are herbivores and feed on leaves, grass, and shrubs. They are primarily active during the day and prefer to live in rugged terrain and dense forests.

The Himalayan serow is considered an important animal in Nepalese culture and religion. It is believed to be a sacred animal, and its image can be found on many Nepalese temples and shrines. According to Nepalese folklore, the Himalayan serow is associated with Lord Shiva, who is one of the most revered gods in the Hindu religion. It is believed that Lord Shiva rides on the back of a Himalayan serow and uses it as a means of transportation.

Buddhist stupa in Himalaya mountains, Nepal

Threats to Nepal’s National Animal

Despite its cultural significance, the Himalayan serow is facing many threats in the wild. One of the biggest threats is poaching and illegal trade. The animal is hunted for its meat, skin, and other body parts, which are used in traditional medicine and as trophies. Poachers also target the Himalayan serow’s habitat, which is being destroyed due to human activities such as logging, agriculture, and urbanisation. As a result, the animal’s natural range is shrinking, and its populations are becoming fragmented.

Climate change and natural disasters are also posing a threat to the Himalayan serow’s survival. The Himalayas are experiencing rapid changes in temperature and rainfall patterns, which are affecting the animal’s habitat and food sources. Natural disasters such as landslides, floods, and earthquakes are also causing significant damage to the animal’s habitat and disrupting its behaviour.

Conservation Efforts

To address these threats, Nepal has implemented several legal protections and conservation measures. The Himalayan serow is listed as a protected species under Nepal’s National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, which prohibits hunting, trading, and poaching of the animal. The government has also established several protected areas, including national parks, conservation areas, and wildlife reserves, where the Himalayan serow is allowed to roam freely without any human interference.

Community-based conservation initiatives are also playing a crucial role in the conservation of the Himalayan serow. These initiatives involve local communities in the conservation process, empowering them to protect their natural resources and wildlife. For example, the Community Conserved Area (CCA) approach, which was pioneered by the government of Nepal, involves the establishment of locally managed conservation areas, where communities are responsible for monitoring and managing their natural resources, including the Himalayan serow.

Tourism and conservation also go hand in hand in Nepal. Responsible tourism practices that support wildlife conservation can help raise awareness about the importance of protecting the Himalayan serow and its habitat. Eco-tourism initiatives, such as wildlife safaris, trekking, and bird watching tours, are designed to minimise the negative impacts of tourism on the environment while providing an opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty of Nepal’s natural landscapes and wildlife. When done responsibly, tourism can provide a sustainable source of income for local communities, which in turn can incentivize them to protect their natural resources and wildlife.

Volunteering also plays a role in raising awareness. Volunteering with GVI in Nepal is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Himalayan serow and other aspects of Nepali culture. GVI offers a variety of volunteer programs that focus on conservation and community development, providing volunteers with the chance to work alongside local communities and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing Nepal’s wildlife and people.

In conclusion, the Himalayan serow, Nepal’s national animal, is an important species that plays a crucial role in the country’s cultural and ecological heritage. However, the animal is facing many threats, including poaching, habitat loss, and climate change. To protect the Himalayan serow, Nepal has implemented several legal protections and conservation measures, including community-based conservation initiatives and eco-tourism. As responsible travellers and global citizens, we can all do our part to support these conservation efforts and help ensure that future generations can continue to admire the beauty of Nepal’s natural landscapes and wildlife.

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Posted: July 10, 2024

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