The Rann of Kutch was formed 150-200 million years ago when the Arabian Sea encroached on the region.
Subsequent geological upheavals created a landmass that isolated the Kutch basin from the sea.
The Little Rann of Kutch
The Little Rann of Kutch is situated at the end of the Gulf of Kutch, primarily in the Surendranagar district of Gujarat.
It is a vast, barren salt flat for most of the year, transforming into a shallow wetland during the monsoon.
The wetland features approximately 75 elevated pieces of land known as "bets."
The Wild Ass Sanctuary
The Little Rann of Kutch is home to the wild ass sanctuary, the only remaining habitat for the Indian wild ass (Equus hemionus khur).
Around 6,000 Indian wild asses, locally called "khur," inhabit this area.
The terrain is harsh, with dry and xerophytic vegetation, but the khur are well-adapted to survive in such conditions.
The khur has outlasted predators like cheetahs and lions that were once present in the region.
Characteristics of the Indian Wild Ass
The khur is similar in size to a zebra and has a lifespan of 21 years.
They live in stable groups consisting of females and young, while stallions are generally solitary.
The khur can reach speeds of up to 70 km per hour on the flat terrain of the Rann.
Mares face long gestation periods and can experience concurrent lactation and pregnancy.
The khur population faced near-extinction due to diseases like African Horse Sickness and Surra.
Disease outbreaks led to a low level of genetic diversity among the survivors.
Due to conservation efforts, the khur population has rebounded in recent decades.
Human-Wildlife Conflicts
The Little Rann is a significant source of salt production in India, attracting human activity.
Seasonal migration of people and livestock poses threats to the ecosystem.
Irrigation canals can increase soil salinity and impact wildlife habitat.
The khur are often blamed for crop raiding, but other animals like nilgai and feral pigs cause more damage.
A proper separation of human-dominated areas from the sanctuary would be beneficial for both wildlife and human activities.
Feral Pigs
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