Fishing Cat – Kaziranga Study Finds Strong Wetland Population
Fishing Cat – Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam, globally recognised for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros, has now drawn attention for another significant resident. A recent scientific assessment has confirmed the presence of at least 57 individual fishing cats across more than 450 square kilometres of the protected landscape, suggesting a stable and breeding population thriving in the floodplains.
First Scientific Assessment Conducted in Kaziranga
The study marks the first dedicated effort to evaluate the fishing cat population within Kaziranga. Researchers identified the animals using camera-trap data originally deployed for the All India Tiger Estimation programme. By carefully reviewing images captured over time, scientists were able to determine whether the species is rare or commonly distributed in the reserve and to estimate the minimum number of individuals present.
Park authorities clarified that the figure of 57 is based largely on by-catch data—images of fishing cats incidentally captured by camera traps intended for monitoring tigers. Because the grid placement of cameras was optimised for tiger surveys rather than small wetland carnivores, officials believe the actual number of fishing cats may be higher.
A Rare Wetland Predator Finds Refuge
The fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) is among the few wild cat species adapted to hunting in water. With partially webbed feet and a preference for wetlands, it depends heavily on river basins, marshes and floodplains. Across parts of Southeast Asia, including Vietnam and Java, the species has experienced severe declines due to habitat destruction and hunting pressures.
South Asia now holds the core global population of fishing cats, closely tied to lowland wetlands and river systems. The findings from Kaziranga reinforce the park’s role as a crucial refuge within the Brahmaputra floodplains.
Dr. Sonali Ghosh, Director of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, described the reserve as a vital stronghold for the species, noting that its mosaic of wetlands and grasslands offers suitable conditions for survival and reproduction.
Habitat Conditions Support Population Growth
The park’s landscape provides ideal ecological conditions for the species. Wet alluvial grasslands, shallow beels, marshy meadows and patches of woodland create a network of habitats that sustain fish and other prey species. These features also offer shelter during the annual floods that shape the Brahmaputra valley ecosystem.
Scientists involved in the study explained that the presence of a sizeable fishing cat population signals a healthy wetland system. According to conservation researcher Tiasa Adhya of the Fishing Cat Project, the findings establish a baseline for monitoring how floodplain dynamics may influence wetland habitats in the future. Changes in water flow or marshland distribution could directly impact the species, making long-term monitoring essential.
Climate and Conservation Concerns
Experts have emphasised that wetland carnivores like the fishing cat are particularly vulnerable to climate change and river modification. Dr. Ian Harrison, co-chair of the IUCN SSC Freshwater Conservation Committee, pointed out that freshwater biodiversity faces mounting pressure from shifting river systems and infrastructure development. Tracking species that depend on these ecosystems can provide early warning signs of ecological stress.
In Assam, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary shared the findings publicly, noting that the discovery underscores the ecological richness of the state’s protected areas. The fishing cat, sometimes associated with Assamese folklore, has increasingly become a symbol of wetland conservation in the region.
Marking Fishing Cat Day with Community Engagement
The report was formally released to coincide with Fishing Cat Day on February 22. The occasion was observed with outreach activities aimed at strengthening conservation awareness among local communities. Events included interactive sessions with residents living near the park, art competitions for school students, and expert lectures for college participants.
While Kaziranga remains widely celebrated for its rhinos and tigers, the confirmation of a robust fishing cat population broadens its conservation profile. The study not only adds to scientific knowledge about the species but also reinforces the importance of safeguarding India’s riverine wetlands for future generations.