High in the misty peaks of Arunachal Pradesh’s Dibang Valley, where rivers carve deep canyons and dense forests echo with birdsong, the Idu Mishmi community has thrived for centuries, guided by an intimate understanding of the land they call home. Their knowledge isn’t just a way of life—it’s a survival strategy woven into the rhythms of nature.
A new study led by anthropologist Ambika Aiyadurai, in collaboration with Idu Mishmi resident Eha Tacho, sheds light on one of their most fascinating traditions: wildlife trapping. The research documents eleven unique trapping techniques, honed over generations, revealing not only the ingenuity of the Idu Mishmis but also their profound respect for the ecosystems they depend on. Published in the Indian Journal of History of Science under the Indian National Science Academy, the study details the preparation, materials used, seasons of usage, and the animals targeted by these methods.
“Trapping is more than just a livelihood activity,” explains Aiyadurai, a visiting faculty member at the Center for Multidisciplinary Research, Tezpur University. “It’s tied to the community’s worldview, deeply rooted in their understanding of the relationship between people, plants, and animals.”
Each trapping technique has its own story, shaped by the materials available in the forest, the changing seasons, and the specific needs of the community. For instance, the Deprah, a simple rodent and bird trap, uses a weighted stone and bamboo sticks set at a 45-degree angle, triggered by bait.
The Adrapoh, a snap trap employing elastic bamboo sticks, targets mice, squirrels, birds, and snakes.
The Buhu, a pit trap designed for large mammals like tigers and bears, is camouflaged with banana leaves and collapsible bamboo platforms, though it has been banned in many villages due to risks to humans and livestock. The Sikhembra drah, a wire loop trap, is designed for mammals such as barking deer and bears, using a circular metal wire loop to capture animals without causing harm.
These methods are crafted from locally sourced materials like bamboo, wood, and stones, demonstrating the community’s sustainable approach to living in harmony with their environment. Guided by their knowledge of wildlife behavior and seasonal patterns, these techniques reflect a deep connection to the natural world.
Arunachal Pradesh, a biodiversity hotspot in India’s Eastern Himalayas, is home to over 500 species of mammals and 650 bird species. The Idu Mishmi community’s practices underscore the importance of documenting and preserving Indigenous knowledge systems in such ecologically significant regions.
Field research for the project was conducted between January and April 2022, using semi-structured interviews, observations, and digital documentation techniques. The involvement of local collaborator Eha Tacho was pivotal in ensuring access to the community and authentic representation of their practices. Aiyadurai acknowledged the invaluable contributions of residents like Ananta Meme and the support of Eha and Laabi Tacho, who also helped with photographs.
The study highlights the significance of traditional knowledge in sustaining livelihoods and cultural identity, particularly in regions where lives are closely tied to the natural environment. As debates over sustainability and conservation grow more intense, research like this offers critical insights into balancing ecological preservation with the needs of Indigenous communities.
For Aiyadurai, the project isn’t just about understanding the past but also about shaping the future. “Traditional practices like these provide valuable insights into sustainable coexistence with nature. It is crucial to document and learn from them before they are lost to modernization,” she concludes.
The Idu Mishmi story offers a valuable lesson in conservation: Indigenous practices and ecological preservation are not inherently at odds. By integrating traditional knowledge into modern conservation frameworks, a balance can be found that honors both the land and the people who have stewarded it for centuries. This study not only illuminates the ingenuity and ecological wisdom of the Idu Mishmi people but also sparks broader discussions on the role of Indigenous practices in shaping sustainable futures.
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