GUWAHATI: The pygmy hog, once thought to be extinct in the wild, was rediscovered in Assam’s Barnadi Wildlife Sanctuary in 1971.
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Since 1996, captive breeding and conservation efforts have significantly boosted the population of these tiny and elusive creatures, the smallest wild pig species. Since 2008, 179 captive-bred pygmy hogs have been released into Assam’s forests, and experts believe that most of the current wild population, estimated at around 200, are now naturally born.
Aaranyak, a conservation group based in Guwahati, reported on Tuesday that 59 more captive-bred pygmy hogs were released in Orang National Park in North Assam, bringing the estimated population there to 130. “This is particularly exciting because pygmy hogs in the wild have a lifespan of about eight years, meaning the current population is likely all wild-born,” the NGO stated while talking to the media. Additionally, nine more hogs were reportedly released in Manas National Park, marking the fifth such release there. Camera trap data from the 2023 release site in Manas showed encouraging signs, with hogs actively exploring and breeding, including the first-ever sighting of a pregnant female in the wild during the conservation program.
These efforts are part of the Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme (PHCP), which began in 1995 in partnership with Assam’s forest department, the UK-based Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, the IUCN Wild Pigs Specialist Group, and India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. Aaranyak and Eco-Systems India play key roles in implementing the PHCP.
Monitoring pygmy hogs remains a challenge due to their shy, secretive nature and preference for tall, dense grass, which keeps them hidden. Beyond their conservation importance, pygmy hogs serve as sensitive indicators of the health of the tall alluvial wet grasslands they inhabit, a critical ecosystem that also supports species like the Bengal florican, hispid hare, eastern barasingha, and wild buffalo. The region is also vital for large mammals such as rhinos, elephants, and tigers.
Assam CMO took to X to put out, “On Wildlife Week (2-8 Oct) 2024, we celebrate Assam’s rich biodiversity and recognize the critically endangered Pygmy Hog, the world's smallest and rarest wild suid. Native to Assam and now found only in Manas National Park, the Pygmy Hog's survival is closely linked to the preservation of tall, wet grasslands, and it faces significant threats from habitat loss and conversion. Let us commit to protecting the Pygmy Hog and safeguarding Assam’s unique ecosystems.”
Aaranyak emphasised the ecological significance of these grasslands, which act as natural flood buffers during the monsoon season and help maintain groundwater levels during the dry season, benefiting surrounding farming communities. C. Ramesh, field director of Manas Tiger Reserve, also stated the importance of grassland restoration for long-term water security in the region. As an endangered species on the IUCN Red List, pygmy hogs rely on effective grassland management, which is essential for maintaining the health and sustainability of these critical ecosystems.