UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Endangered Species Groups

Analysis

These species are considered threatened/endangered in the UPSC context. The set includes species facing high risk of extinction, such as the Great Indian Bustard, Musk Deer, Red Panda and Asiatic Wild Ass.

1. Great Indian Bustard — Correct

It is Critically Endangered.

It is one of India’s most threatened birds, mainly found in Rajasthan.

Major threats include habitat loss, hunting in the past, and collision with power lines.

2. Musk Deer — Correct

The Himalayan Musk Deer is Endangered.

It is hunted for its musk pod, which has high commercial value.

It is found in Himalayan regions.

3. Red Panda — Correct

The Red Panda is Endangered.

It is found in the Eastern Himalayas, especially in regions like Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and parts of North-East India.

Its major threats are habitat loss and fragmentation.

4. Asiatic Wild Ass — Correct

The Asiatic Wild Ass, also called Khur, is a threatened species.

In India, it is mainly found in the Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat.

It receives strong legal protection under Indian wildlife laws.

Why other options are not correct

* Cheetal is not endangered; it is commonly found in many Indian forests.
* Blue Bull or Nilgai is also not endangered.
* Rhesus Monkey and Hanuman Langur are not endangered.
* Sarus Crane is threatened but generally classified as Vulnerable, not Endangered.
* Snow Leopard is Vulnerable, not Endangered.
* Lion-tailed Macaque is Endangered, but if the option also includes common species like Blue Bull, Hanuman Langur or Cheetal, that whole option becomes incorrect.