Why is it in the News?

The forest department is monitoring an outbreak of mange among a pack of Asiatic wild dogs in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) in the Nilgiris, which they strongly suspect has spread to the animals through the local feral dog population.

What is Mange Disease?

• Mange is a distressing skin condition that affects dogs and is caused by microscopic parasites and different types of mites that infest the dog's skin and coat.
  • The two most common forms of mange in dogs are Sarcoptic mange (caused by Sarcoptic scabies mites) and Demodectic mange (caused by Demodex Canis mites). 
  • Sarcoptic Mange- Scabies: Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious and can spread from dog to dog through direct contact. These microscopic mites burrow into the dog's skin, leading to intense itching and discomfort.
  • Demodectic Mange: Demodectic mange, on the other hand, is not usually contagious and often results from an overgrowth of naturally occurring Demodex mites. A weakened immune system or genetic factors can contribute to the development of this form of mange.
• Common Symptoms of Mange in Dogs include:
  • Intense Itching
  • Skin Infections
  • Crusty or Scaly Skin
  • Ear Problems
• Mange in dogs is a treatable condition when detected early and managed appropriately.

About Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR):

• The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, nestled in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiris District at the tri-junction of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, holds ancient significance, dating back 65 million years to the formation of the Western Ghats.
• It shares borders with the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala) to the West and the Bandipur Tiger Reserve (Karnataka) to the.
• The Theppakadu Elephant Camp within the reserve is a popular tourist spot, boasting a rich variety of flora and fauna, including Elephants, Gaurs, Tigers, Panthers, and various deer species.
• This historic elephant camp, established over a century ago, sits on the banks of the Moyar River, serving vital roles in human-wildlife conflict resolution, monsoon patrolling, eco-tourism, elephant conservation, and education.