Bison, considered an endangered species, has witnessed a rise in population at the Bison National Park within Trishna sanctuary in South district following fencing of the border and conservation of bio-diversity.
During a census conducted in 2013, around 120 bisons were spotted in the Trishna sanctuary spread over more than 164 sq km. But this year the number has risen to about 125.
"Due to setting up of the bison reserve in the sanctuary, stopping of poaching and conservation of bio-diversity and creation of good habitat the number of bisons are increasing," Animesh Das, the Wildlife warden of the sanctuary, said.
The 30 sq km Bison reserve was established in Trishna sanctuary near the Indo-Bangla border a few years ago with funds from the Centre to preserve and protect the endangered species of bison, locally known as Gaba or Gaur, he said.
"The Bison reserve aims at ecological restoration of existing natural habitats and migratory route of bisons, promotion of measures for mitigation of man-animal conflict in crucial habitats and strengthening measures for protection of bisons from poachers," Das said.
Grass is cultivated in major habitats of bison in the Trishna core area as well as the National Park area, the official said.
Recently plantation of a species of Bamboo, locally known as Kaillai, which is the animal's favourite food has also been started, the official said.
