Why in news?
On 25 October 2025 villagers in Assam’s Tinsukia district rescued a rare white‑cheeked partridge and handed it over to forest officials near Dehing Patkai National Park. The bird was released back into the wild after veterinary examination, underscoring the importance of community participation in wildlife conservation.
Background
The white‑cheeked partridge (Arborophila atrogularis) is a shy, ground‑dwelling bird belonging to the pheasant family (Phasianidae). It inhabits dense undergrowth in primary and secondary evergreen forests and adjacent scrub and bamboo thickets. In India it is mainly found in the foothills of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, while its wider range extends into northern Myanmar and north‑east Bangladesh.
Species facts
- Physical description: This small partridge has a brownish body with a distinctive white cheek patch bordered by a dark collar. Males and females look similar.
- Habitat and altitude: It prefers moist evergreen forests at elevations up to about 750 metres in India, though populations in South‑East Asia may occur at higher altitudes.
- Behaviour: The species is terrestrial and largely non‑migratory. It forages on the forest floor for seeds, insects and fallen fruit, usually in pairs or small groups.
- Conservation status: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the white‑cheeked partridge as Near Threatened because of rapid habitat loss and hunting pressure. Its population is believed to be declining.
About Dehing Patkai National Park
- Location: The park is situated in Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam, in the foothills of the Patkai range along the Dehing River.
- Ecosystem: Often called the “Amazon of the East,” Dehing Patkai is a tropical rainforest receiving over 4,000 mm of rainfall annually. Its vegetation includes semi‑evergreen trees, orchids, ferns, cane and bamboo.
- Wildlife: Besides the white‑cheeked partridge, the park shelters species such as the Hoolock gibbon, clouded leopard, Chinese pangolin, slow loris and several species of hornbill. Many of these animals are globally threatened.
Significance of the rescue
- The quick response from villagers and conservation groups demonstrates growing awareness about protecting rare species.
- Releasing the bird back into its natural habitat helps maintain breeding populations and genetic diversity.
- The event draws attention to the need for preserving rainforest habitats, controlling hunting and involving local communities in conservation efforts.
Conclusion
The white‑cheeked partridge rescue at Dehing Patkai highlights both the fragility of India’s rainforest fauna and the power of grassroots conservation. Protecting habitats, curbing illegal hunting and educating local residents are essential to ensure this elusive bird continues to thrive.
Source: North East Now, Animalia Bio