Why in the news?

  • The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has for the first time evaluated the Indian wolf.

Indian Wolf

  • About: Indian grey wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) is a subspecies of grey wolf found across Southwest Asia and the Indian subcontinent. 
  • Distribution in India: It is mainly found across central, western, and northern India, spanning sixteen states with major populations in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka.
  • Habitat: It is an apex predator in India’s scrublands, grasslands and semi-arid agro-ecosystems.
  • Threats:  Habitat loss, persecution, and human-wildlife conflict.
  • Conservation Status:
    • IUCN Status: Vulnerable.
    • CITES: Appendix I. 
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.