Paschim Bardhaman, 29^th April, 2025: In an effort towards the conservation of lesser-known fauna, WINGS (Wildlife Information and Nature Guide Society) conducted an awareness event at Churulia NK School in West Bengal’s Paschim Bardhaman district, this past week. The event was supported by Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation.

Districts like Paschim Bardhaman, Purulia and Jhargram are known for their rich biodiversity, especially lesser-known mammals such as the striped-hyena (Hyaena hyaena), grey wolf (Canis lupus), Bengal fox (Vulpes bengalensis) and jungle cat (Felis chaus). These species often fail to get the deserved attention in the general conservation discourse but they provide crucial ecological services. Rising cases of habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict, and most importantly, road kills have been a growing threat for these species. Realising the importance of raising awareness about these issues, WINGS, a local NGO based in Paschim Bardhaman, initiated awareness workshops with the aim of sensitising young minds and local community members towards the importance of conserving these species.

Striped hyaena from Paschim Bardhaman, West Bengal | Photograph by Arindam Roy

Around 70 school students of different age groups participated in this event hosted by Churilia NK School. Dr. Anupam Khan, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Durgapur Division, was present as Chief Guest and addressed the importance of wildlife of the region and the need to protect even the lesser charismatic species. He emphasised the need for continuous community outreach, especially among the youth, to draw attention and strengthen conservation measures for such species. Dr. Khan appreciated the efforts of WINGS and WTI for initiating the workshops. Dr. Kaushik Deuti, Scientist-E, Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Kolkata, also gave a lecture on the role of locals in wildlife conservation. Dr. Deuti talked about his experience after years of working on wildlife research and conservation. Local Ranger and Beat Officer from the Asansol Territorial Region were also present in the event, reflecting strong support from the West Bengal Forest Department.

Awareness session in progress in Churulia NK School | Photography by WINGS

The sessions delved into different facets of these species — from their contribution to the ecosystem to the threats they encounter in the fast-developing urban areas around new linear infrastructures like road network expansion. The problem of road kills, one of the major risks that hyena population has been facing in this area, was also highlighted. The lecture also highlighted the solutions to the problem and how local communities can play a decisive role in curbing such threats.

An informative leaflet with information on distribution, habitat, habits, and conservation status and photographs of species like striped hyena, grey wolf, golden jackal jungle cat and Bengal fox were distributed among the students. A quiz session was also organised for the students to make learning fun and competitive. The enthusiasm and interest shown by the students indicated a high potential for the creation of future conservation ambassadors.

Rapid Action Projects (RAP) such as this provide urgent critical support to local individuals and organisations to nip wildlife emergencies in the bud. A series of effective outcomes through a consistent approach contributes to a larger conservation impact. If you know of a deserving individual or organisation that needs support to effect conservation action on ground, get in touch with us through rap@wti.org.in.