This week’s environment and conservation news stories rolled into one.

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Closing Bengaluru parks in the afternoons deprives outdoor workers of refuge from heat

Several studies have shown that tree-covered outdoor spaces are significantly cooler than uncovered spaces.

Many state reports documenting “unclassed forests” are incomplete

Incomplete records could misidentify open natural grasslands as forests, potentially leading to inappropriate afforestation.

Genes connect, geography separates red pandas

Community conservation is crucial as most of the red panda core habitat seems to be falling outside the protected area network.

In forested villages powered by solar, kitchen gardens aid in nutrition

With solar-powered irrigation, Chhattisgarh villages have diversified from paddy and potatoes to vegetables, fostering hopes for better health.

Population rise a bittersweet win for greater adjutant storks, as poison enters their diet

After the population of greater adjutant storks rose in Bhagalpur, Bihar, stork deaths are being noted across the district, due to the consumption of poisoned rats and fish.

India’s mid-term mitigation action plan needs ambitious targets, says study

Successful implementation of the proposed strategies requires coordinated action across multiple ministries and state governments.

Not so rusty? Feline spotting in Uttar Pradesh triggers debate over leucism

The photograph of an individual rusty-spotted cat, taken in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, has created a debate over its condition.

Artificial reefs to boost fish catch, support livelihoods

Despite successful artificial reef projects in India, some scientists remain uncertain about their long-term impact.