Aaranyak Hosts Frog Watch and Photography Session in Karbi Anglong

Karbi Anglong: Biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak organised a unique Frog Watch and Field Photography session in Phumen Engti village, aiming to foster awareness about amphibian conservation and local biodiversity. The session attracted participants from varied academic backgrounds, including a PhD scholar from Royal Global University, zoology students from Debraj Roy College, an IIT Gandhinagar faculty member, and representatives from Digboi College. Led by herpetologist Dr. Jayanta Kumar Roy and supported by local conservationists Mongal Rongphar and Bidaram Tokbi, the group explored forest trails near the village. Along the path, they observed and photographed a variety of reptiles and amphibians such as Indian Skipper Frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis), Cricket Frogs (Minervarya spp.), Red-eyed Frog (Leptobrachium smithi), Assamese Cascade Frog (Amolops assamensis), Asian Common Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus), and various geckos, skinks, and lizards. The session combined scientific learning with cultural heritage. During a refreshment break in the forest, participants exchanged views on conservation while listening to a traditional Karbi folk tale, enriching the experience with local ecological wisdom. Supported by IUCN-KfW and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Aaranyak continues its mission to conserve biodiversity and empower indigenous communities across the Kaziranga–Karbi Anglong and Manas landscapes through sustainable livelihood and educational initiatives.