Browsing by Author "Goyal, S.P."

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Assessment of Human-Elephant Conflicts in Jalpaiguri District of West Bengal in Relation to Land-Use Patterns
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2003) Roy, Anirban Datta; Goyal, S.P.; Sathyakumar, S.
This study on Human Elephant Conflict was conducted in Jalpaiguri district .of north West Bengal to identify the level of conflicts in different areas of the district, and to recognize it in connection with land-use patterns existing in the district. The study was conducted over five months and information on conflicts was collected from Tea Gardens and Wildlife Squads. Interviews and questionnaires were also used to survey the conflict affected viilages. The different conflict areas and the intensity of the conflicts in those areas were identified with the help of gridded maps. Results showed that although most of the conflict areas had remained the same from previous studies, some new conflict areas were also emerging. Seasonality of the conflicts was also found to be related to cropping patterns adopted. Information collected from the Tea gardens showed that the Tea gardens which had previously been categorized as high conflict areas had remained same to a great extent. The Tea gardens having the highest conflict incidences were frequented more by solitary animals rather than herds. The mean group size of the herds were found to show two distinct peaks in the months of May-June and September-November. Interviews with affected villagers provided a true picture of the difficulties faced by them during crop-raiding. In the absence of Wildlife Squads, villagers had to drive the elephants away with their own methods.
Characterization of bone, ivory, Rhino horn and antler to deal wildlife offence cases.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2007) Singh, Rina Rani; Goyal, S.P.
Species for this study were selected according to the endangered status of the species and since these products were difficult to identify mostly in processed form. Therefore, attempts were made to characterize bones of tiger (Panthera tigris) and leopard (Panthera pardus), greater one horned rhinoceros (rhinoceros unicornis) horn and antlers of chital (Axis axis), sambar (Cervus unicolor), swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli). Other than these species mentioned in synopsis, antlers of hog deer (Axis porcinus) and barking deer (Muntiacus muntajak) and ivory of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) have also been characterized for comparison purposes. The present study is an effort to develop methods to characterize these items for conservation of the concern species and objectives of this study are as follows: 1. Determine morphological, crystallographic (XRD & XRF) and DNA characteristics of major bones of tiger and leopard, and 2. Determine morphological, crystallographic (XRD & XRF) and DNA characteristics of rhino horn and antler of chital, sambar and swamp deer species.
Comparison of tiger population estimated using non-invasive techniques of pugmark, camera trap and DNA based analysis of hair and scat in Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve Phase II: Estimation of tiger population : Executive summary
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2012) Singh, R.; Pandey, P.; Saxena, L.; Qureshi, Q.; Sankar, K.; Goyal, S.P.
Current population status, distribution and threats to Indian Pangolin (Manis crissicaudata) in Terai Arc Landscape, Uttarakhand: a pilot study
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2020) Lyngdoh, S.; Goyal, S.P.; Nigam, P.; Kumar, V.; Badola, S.; Rasailly, S.
This pilot study to provide information on the current distribution of Indian pangolin and major poaching hotspots throughout its ranges to suggest appropriate conservation strategies and protection measures for the species. The proposed objectives for this pilot study are the following: a. To review the current status, distribution and threats to the Indian pangolin population in the study area. b. To prepare a standard protocol for the survey and population estimation of Indian pangolin. c. To formulate effective anti-poaching strategies and devise conservation measures for Indian pangolin to help Uttarakhand Forest Department.
Effect of land use change on the habitat and abundance of Grizzled giant squirrel in and around Srivilliputhur-Meghamalai Tiger reserve, Srivilliputhur Division, Tamil Nadu
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2024) Bevoor, Shilpa; Gopi, G.V.; Kher, Varun; Goyal, S.P.
Human activities, especially energy extraction and food production, have drastically altered the global environment, impacting many wild species. Since 1990, around 420 million hectares of forests have been lost mainly due to agricultural conversion, significantly affecting biodiversity. In biodiversity hotspots like India's Western Ghats, agricultural expansion, monoculture plantations (tea, coffee, rubber), and non-timber forest product harvesting have fragmented protected areas, altered plant communities, disrupted nutrient cycles, and reduced carbon sequestration. While monoculture plantations reduce biodiversity, they can still provide habitats for some threatened species. Wildlife such as nilgai, blackbuck, elephants, and giant squirrels in India have adapted to these altered landscapes for food, water, and shelter, demonstrating resilience amidst habitat changes. This study focuses on the impact of converting barren lands into mango and coconut plantations around the Srivilliputhur-Megamalai Tiger Reserve in southern India on the grizzled giant squirrel population and habitat. Over the past three decades, these changes have enhanced connectivity between natural forests and agricultural areas, offering energy-rich fruits that attract wildlife, including GGS. This shift has altered ecological dynamics, making wildlife more reliant on cultivated foods and affecting their movement patterns. Density estimates reveal higher concentrations of GGS and nesting sites (dreys) in plantations compared to protected areas, with mixed plantations showing the highest densities due to the availability of nesting sites and year-round fruiting trees. Seasonal variations in GGS distribution highlight preferences for specific tree species based on fruit availability and habitat characteristics. The study also examines drey site preferences, noting GGS preference for mango trees in plantations over coconut trees due to structural attributes that provide better support and protection. These findings underscore the species' adaptation to plantation environments while emphasizing the critical role of specific habitat features for nesting and overall habitat suitability. Local farmers report conflicts with GGS due to crop damage, particularly affecting coconut, mango, tamarind, and other fruit-bearing trees. Perceived economic losses from GGS feeding habits often exceed actual damage levels, emphasizing the need for accurate assessment and targeted mitigation strategies to reduce conflict. Conservation implications stress the importance of maintaining critical habitats within protected areas, establishing buffer zones between plantations and natural forests, and promoting biodiversity-friendly practices in monoculture plantations. Community-based conservation efforts and adaptive management strategies are essential for mitigating human-wildlife conflicts and ensuring the sustainable coexistence of GGS and agricultural livelihoods in this biodiversity hotspot
Effect of village relocation on ground birds and small mammals in Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan, India
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2017) Mondal, Rakesh; Goyal, S.P.; Nigam, Parag
1) Conservation related resettlement has been practised in India from 1960' s. However, studies related to the effect of village relocation on wildlife are limited. 2) Exploitation of natural resources by resident communities causes direct negative impact on native fauna and flora. These activities may include extraction of natural resources (fodder and fuel) or competition for the available resources by existing livestock with native fauna. Alterations in the vegetation structure can result in alteration of the bird community in these areas. 3) Galliformes is one such taxon that has been documented to be affected by human disturbance and grazing. These species are good indicators of habitat quality as they are solely dependent on the ground layer for food and cover. 4) There are 29 villages inside the Sariska Tiger Reserve and a relocation effort initiated as early as 1966 provides an excellent opportunity to study its effect on wild fauna and flora. 5) The study was carried out in four sites, with two sites where villages had been relocated 50 years (Slopka) and 10 years back (Bhagani); one site where village had been partially relocated (Sukola) and one where the village still existed The primary objective was to understand the influence of village relocation on Ggalliformes, small mammals and small carnivores. Additionally, vegetation structure at each village was also studied to understand influence of village relocation on natural vegetation.
Evaluation of Population Estimation Sampling Techniques and Assessment of Genetic Diversity of Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) Population in Dudhwa National Pa: Population in dudhwa national park, uttar pradesh, India
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2013) Srivastava, Vibhav; Goyal, S.P.; Qureshi, Qamar
The ideology of wildlife conservation emerged with the realization that the wildlife numbers are on a decline in the natural habitats. Since, due to humane limitations we cannot ascertain the exact numbers of a individuals very accurately, therefore, the basic requirement for population estimation arises. Greater one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) , already being declared a globally threatened species, demands much attention towards their surviving numbers in wild. Moreover, with the constant rise in the unethical and illegal human activities, the need to regularly monitor their population is realized. To suffice this requirement, population estimation is largely done in a crude way i.e. by labor intensive block count method in which the probability of missing individuals in dense vegetation is high. Advanced population estimation techniques such as capture-recapture using photographic or DNA fingerprint based individual identification, show promising results within the framework of resources in comparison to use of footprint and dung count methods.The current study was conducted in Rhino Reintroduction Area (RRA) of 27 km2 located in Dudhwa National Park. The first objective was to evaluate four population estimation techniques - non-invasive faecal DNA based capture mark recapture (CMR), photographic CMR, dung count and footprint analysis, for their validity in estimation of rhinoceros population with respect to accuracy and precision. The following techniques have been selected out of the others because of their reasonable accuracy and precision obtained when applied to other megaherbivore (including other species of rhinoceros or elephant) population estimation. I selected Dudhwa National Park (DNP) where the reintroduced rhinoceros population is surviving since 1984-85, with a known population size (32 individuals) so as to compare our estimates. For non-invasive faecal DNA CMR technique 140 fresh dung samples were collected and out of them 27 unique genotypes were identified by microsatellite analysis. The capture history of these unique genotypes was then analyzed in MARK to arrive at a population estimate. In photographic CMR, 4 remotely triggered camera trap units were deployed in 6 sessions having 7 occasions in each session. For dung count, random elephant transects of length varying from 1 km to 3.2 km were run and dung piles were counted on either sides. The data on dung density was analyzed in DISTANCE. For dung decay rate estimation 20 fresh dung piles were marked in each of the four habitat types and monitored for decay. The defecation rate was estimated by observing captive rhinoceros. In case of footprint technique, a foot ruler was kept besides each rhinoceros footprint before capturing its photograph. Twenty four (length, angle and area) parameters were extracted from the images using Sigma SCANPRO. The resulting variables were subjected to principle component analysis (PCA) to check for the corresponding variance values in differentiating individual footprints. It was found that the· non-invasive faecal DNA based population estimation and photographic capture mark recapture were the better ones as compared to the other two. However, the data analysis for the dung count and footprint analysis techniques is still under consideration and does not form part of this thesis. These two techniques require further logical modification in study design and statistical analysis to achieve at a reliable estimate. Between the former two, non-invasive faecal DNA based population estimation technique estimated population size (35.10 ± 5.01) close to the known population size of 32. Photographic capture recapture estimated the population size as (25.98 ± 4.91) which was comparatively less accurate than non-invasive faecal DNA CMR. Knowledge of the genetic status of a confined and isolated population is always beneficial to evaluate their well-being and to avoid any future threat such as that of inbreeding depression. Therefore, second objective of the study> was to describe genetic structure of this isolated and reintroduced population. With 27 identified unique genotypes and 10 rhinoceros specific micro satellite markers the genetic variability in this population was examined. It was found that the mean observed heterozygosity level was 0.353 while mean expected heterozygosity level was 0.483. The effective number of alleles per loci was 2.069. When compared to the genetic diversity of the ancestral population in India and Nepal, evaluated in previously published studies, the following results indicated that this population carries lower genetic variability than ancestral populations. The inbreeding test revealed that the population shows signs of inbreeding (Fls = 0.39) and which are likely to exaggerate in future as it is more or less closed and non-randomly interbreeding. Focusing on the conservation needs from management viewpoint we suggest that it is necessary to 'bring variability in the genetic structure to avoid future dire consequences of inbreeding depression. This can be achieved either by translocating new individuals, preferably males, from other Indian sub-populations of Assam or West Bengal since they have better genetic diversity than the-rhinoceros in Nepal.
Evaluation of the functional status and quality of corridors connecting fragmented populations of tiger in the Indian part of Terai Arc landscape : Final Technical report
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2010) Rajapandian, K.; Anwar, M.; Goyal, S.P.
Most rare and critically endangered species such as tiger (Panthera tigris) exist in human dominated landscapes as small, fragmented and isolated populations in most part of its range. A prerequisite for conservation efforts and management is to identify the factors which affect the distribution and abundance of the species of interest and connectivity between populations occupying the remaining fragments. Tiger populations have dramatically declined in recent years in the Indian part of Terai Arc Landscape (TAL). This top priority landscape for tiger conservation was once continuous across the Himalayan foothills but is now highly fragmented and most of the remaining large, intact habitats are located within protected areas. As tigers cannot sustain viable populations in small habitat fragments, an assessment of potential suitable habitat and connectivity among the remaining habitat patches is required to assess possibilities to ensure the creation of a single functioning metapopulation unit for tiger. Therefore, there is a need to monitor condition of tiger’s habitat (Smith et al. 1998). The effectiveness of potential corridors depends on the quality of habitat with in the corridor, the matrix that surrounds the corridor and redundancy of the corridor network (Collinge, 1998; Haddad et al. 2003). Out of ten corridors identified in TAL (Johnsingh et al., 2004), seven corridors were taken on priority basis for understanding quality and functionality assessment. Five and two corridors exist in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh state of India, respectively. In view of understanding functionality of corridor, the objectives of this study was aimed (i) To describe the functional status (use and intensity) of the corridors with reference to tiger, (ii) To study the biological characteristics (vegetation composition, prey distribution and abundance, and disturbance status) that determines the corridor quality and (iii) To use, and to document the socioeconomic issues affecting the corridor existence and its use. Under this study, we describe basic data obtained for these seven corridors for their habitat characteristics, use by tiger and level of disturbance under Part I. This would provide base line information for comparison in future. Data analysis undertaken in Part II of this report are use of ecological modeling models to assess functionality of these corridors using remote sensing data and other aspects
Factors affecting habitat occupancy of tiger in the Terai Arc landscape, India
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2009) Rajapandian, K.; Goyal, S.P.; Qureshi, Qamar
The goal of this study, therefore, was to identify the factors affecting the distribution of tiger and assess the distribution of suitable habitat patches and the connectivity between these patches for successful dispersal in the Indian part of TAL. In the present study developed GIS probability models for tiger and its prey species and a spatially explicit individual-based dispersal model (SEIBM) for tiger in order to identify and assess the factors which are affecting the occupancy of tiger and subsequently predict potential suitable habitats and estimate the connectivity between the fragmented subpopulations in the Indian as well as between Indian and Nepal part of TAL. Data were collected on presence/absence of four wild ungulates (sambar Cervus unicolor, chital Axis axis, nilgai Boselaphus tragocamelus, and wild pig Sus scrofa), which are important prey species of tiger in two phases during the period between 2002 and 2006. The results of this study, in addition to contributing to the knowledge on factors affecting suitable habitat distribution and dispersal of tiger, have many implications for conservation of tiger in the Indian part of TAL. This study has also identified critical areas needed for management initiatives for functional unit of tiger conservation in the TAL.
Food habits and foraging behaviour of Indian Gazelle (Gazella benneti) in Rajasthan desert
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 1997) Kodoth, Ganesh; Goyal, S.P.
The Indian gazelle inhabiting the arid regions is studied with respect to their food habits and foraging behaviour. In arid areas the selection of a habitat by an animal is mostly governed by spatial and temporal distribution and abundance of food items and the food requirements of that species. This becomes critical especially in an semi-agricultural landscape where the ecosystem is altered without any consideration for the animal. The study was conducted in a habitat close to human habitation around Jodhpur after the harvest. This area is dominated by desert vegetation such as Crotalaria burhia. The study is conducted for a period of six months encompassing two seasons winter (December 15, 1996 - February 20, 1997) and summer (March 20, 1997 - May 10, 1997). The intensive study area was differentiated into six habitat types based on the structural and floristic composition of the vegetation-viz, crop fields, fallow lands, scrub area dominated by Zizyphus, and hedges of Maytenus-Capparis Zizyphus among the agricultural fields. Differential habitat selection by gazelle was observed during summer and winter mainly due to selection of diet based on seasonal nutritional requirements. Diet selection is looked in terms of use-availability and plant chemistry. Based on a relative preference ratio, the habitat and food types were ranked, and the observed trends are explained in terms of the existing theories on diet selection. Diet composition varies with the age and sex classes of the animal viz. breeding males, sub-adult males and adult females. In winter and summer differences in habitat use was exhibited by gazelle, also there was a difference in proportion of the food species in the diet between two seasons. The scrub area was dominated by vegetation having higher crude protein and tannin, was used more than, available in order to supplement their diet (especially in the case of , females) and in summer the crop fields dominated by Crotelaria burhia were used more by all categories of animals. Females fed on a high protein and less tannin diets which is pronounced in winter, sub-adults also fed on a diet having higher protein and tannin, while males were not biased towards a high quality food both in winter and summer. These differences were influenced by the spatial distribution, of food species, plant chemistry, and the differential use of food species among different age and sex classes during the two seasons. Protein and tannins along with moisture seem to govern diet selection rather than just being a function of availability during winter and summer. Spatial distribution of food plants along the habitat types (in the current land-use pattern) does influence habitat use by gazelle. Selection and proportion of the time spent on food species during summer and winter suggest that Indian gazelle is a browser.
Food Resource Partitioning Among Sympatric Bovids Chinkara, Blackbuck and Nilgai in Rajasthan Desert
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 1989) Kunhunu, N.V.Ashraf; Goyal, S.P.
Patterns of dietary selection, overlap and spatial distribution were investigated for three species of sympatric wild ungulates and four species of domestic ungulates (goat, sheep, camel and cattle> during four seasons (summer, pre monsoon, monsoon & post monsoon) in Rajasthan desert. The objective was to determine the mechanisms of food resource partitioning among these seven species of ungulates and the factors allowing their coexistence. Two study areas, Dhawa-Doli and Janwar-Doli were selected for the study, based on the density and distribution of the three wild ungulates. More emphasis was given to Dhawa-Doli where two of the three species (chinkara & blackbuck> were common. Food habits were studied by direct observations. Feeding activity was recorded for feeding height, plant species and part eaten. Availability was determined by percentage cover classes. Three major vegetation zones were identified at Dhawa-Doli. Six study sites were selected across the three vegetation zones. Blackbuck were primarily grazers in monsoon when crops were beginning to grow and annual plants were abundant. Chinkara and nilgai browsed throughout the study and did not show any preference for monocots in periods of resource abundance (monsoon and post monsoon). Food habits of wild ungulates differed more between zones in summer and pre monsoon, when resources were limiting and the effect of vegetation zonation on food habits was evident. In monsoon and post monsoon when resources were abundant, the effect of vegetation zonation was negligible as opportunity for selection increased. Though dietary similarity was more in terms of plant species eaten between chinkara and goats and between sheep and blackbuck, they differed greatly in proportion of utilization. Greater overlap between chinkara and blackbuck during premonsoon suggest a possible temporary interspeciflc competition. In scrublands, dietary overlap was more between species with similar feeding strateg1es (goat & chinkara - sheep & blackbuck) and was less between species with dissimilar feeding strategies. Nilgai was spatially separated in summer and pre monsoon and showed a seasonal spatial overlap w1th chinkara and blackbuck at Dhawa-Doli during crop season. While blackbuck and nilgai exhibited a spatial divergence in response to temporal and spatial availab1lity of food resources, chinkara was largely sedentary. Though utilization of different habitat subun1ts (crop fields, cultivated fields and scrublands) were largely determined by the amount of disturbance, ch1nkara showed a random utilization of these subunits. Blackbuck showed a slight avoidance for crop fields, at least at day time, even though they consumed more crops than chinkara. Mean feeding height for domestic ungulates decreased towards post monsoon as they spent more time feeding on annuals. However, the mean feeding height for wild ungulates increased in response to the growth form of plants. The difference in utilization of different foraging strata was more evident between browsers and more similar between grazers. Broadly, this study suggests that dietary differences among all species were more important than spatial differences, in food resource partitioning.
Habitat and Food Resources Use in Relation to Sex Age and Group Size in Sambar (Rusa unicolor) During Winter in Dry Tropical Deciduous Habitat of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, India
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2011) Goswamy, Amit; Goyal, S.P.; Sankar, K.
The study of habitat use depends on various factors' like environmental conditions, resource availability, physiological condition of an animal and sex. The present research for my dissertation shows that it does exist and it attempts to explain how it is happening. Sambar is a major prey species of tiger and other big cats across most of the parks in India. For the conservation of large predators it is important to evaluate and study the habitat requirement of its major prey species in detail to the level of its age and sex categories. My field study was undertaken between Dec 2010 to March 2011. Intensive study area of 90 sq km was selected in Ranthambhore. to quantify resource availability and use by different categories with respect to sex, age and group size during winter. It was found out that there is a difference in the habitat use of sambar due to sex, age and group size categories, out of the many parameters evaluated and comparisons made it was seen that though in some cases the differences were not profound, and some showed only minor changes, but in majority of the cases the trend observed was as per the expectation. Where smaller body size male animals < 3 yrs) and female associated with fawn and subadults always prefer areas having a good quality resource whereas the adult male and sambar in large group size were mainly in the areas of abundant resource rather than the quality.
Habitat Relationships and Resource Partitioning in a Lizard Community of the Thar Desert
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2007) Agarwal, Ishan; Goyal, S.P.; Qureshi, Qamar
A lizard community in the Thar desert was studied in relation to habitat relationship resource partitioning and community niche pattern. The study was carried out in parts of Desert National Park, Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan, Four habitat types were recognized, barren dunes, stabilized dunes, grassland and rocky hills. A visual encounter survey was used to sample lizards within grids. Logistic regression was used to identify determinants of species presence
Habitat suitability evaluation for leopard (Panthera pardus) using remote sensing and GIS in and around Chitwan National Park, Nepal
(wildlife Institute of India, 2011) Thapa, Tej Bahadur; Mathur, V.B.; Goyal, S.P.
The leopard Panthera pardus is one of the large felid of Asia and Africa that is threatened by habitat loss and direct conflicts with humans. Owing to low population densities and cryptic habits leopard has remained little studied. This study evaluated landscape characteristics; determined distribution and relative abundance of leopards, analyzed diets of leopards and assess the extent, nature of human leopard conflicts and examined habitat use and preference in and around the Chitwan National Park and Buffer Zone (CNPBZ), Nepal. Methodologies used to accomplish these objectives included remote sensing, geographic information system (GIS), ecological field work (line transect sampling for prey, camera trapping for leopard and scat collection), social surveys and lab work for diet determination using micro histological technique. Abundance and density information forms the baseline for conservation planning. Camera-trap surveys were carried out during winter 2008/09 and 2010. This study provided much needed baseline information on habitat characteristics of CNPBZ, abundance of leopard and prey population, feeding ecology and prey selection by leopard, leopard- human conflicts and habitat use of leopards.
Habitat Use by Radio Instrumented Chital, Sambar and Nilgai in Sariska Tiger Reserve
(1991) Chakraborty, Bipul; Goyal, S.P.
Habitat Use by Rodents in a Sandy Habitat Around Sam, Western Rajasthan
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 1999) Mukherjee, Shomen; Goyal, S.P.
Earlier studies on rodents in the Thar have recorded only the broad habitat types in which the different species occur. Except Rogovin el al. (1994), no other study has looked into microhabitat use by rodents. The present study aims to look at habitat use by three species of gerbils in a sandy habitat: The macro and microhabitat use by three species of rodents viz. Gerbillus gleadowi, G.nanus and Meriones hurrianae, in a sandy habitat, receiving rainfall of around 100-200 mm, was studied in Thar desert. Three distinct sandy habitats (Stabilized dunes Barren dune and Interdune), within 4 sq. km. area around Sam, Jaisalmer. was selected for the study. Due to zero captures after 500 trap nights, the use of Sherman traps was discontinued. Instead, circular track plots made out of chalk powder were used for looking at microhabitat use within each of the habitats. Track identification, up to species level, was first standardized from live specimens in captivity and then used in field. A total of sixteen variables representing habitat complexity (vertical), heterogeneity (horizontal) and phenology were enumerated around each plots. G. gleadowi was found to be the most abundant species, occupying all the three habitats. G. nanus was found to inhabit the Stabilised and Interdunal areas, while M. hurrianae was present only in the Interdune. Factor analysis using principle component extraction was used to determine the microhabitat characteristics. G. gleadowi was the sole occupant of Barren dune, where it did not show preference for any particular microhabitat. ' During winter, in Stabilised and Interdune, G. gleadowi was found using areas with relatively less compact soil, lower mean vegetation height and fewer number of hummocks compared to G. nanus. In summer, the species still continued using areas with relatively lower soil compactness, mean vegetation height and fewer hummocks compared to G. nanus, but showed higher use of areas with more ground cover (vegetation) compared to winter. G. nanus was found using areas with relatively more compact soil, higher mean vegetation height and greater number of hummocks. Overall, G. gleadowi was found to use the maximum range of microhabitats compared to the other two species. The summer niche space of G. gleadowi was found to be greater than its winter niche. During summer it was found using areas with more ground cover, higher percentage mature leaves, young leaves and fruits. M hurrianae was found to have a strict association with Capparis decidua tree, under which it burrows. The species is probably facing microhabitat loss due to collection of C. decidua poles by villagers.
Habitat Use, Group Size and Activity Pattern of Goral (Nemorhaedus goral) in Simbalbara Sanctury (Himachal Pradesh) and Darpur Reserved Forest (Haryana) India
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 1993) Pendharkar, Anand; Goyal, S.P.
A study on the habitat use, group size and activity patterns of goral (Nemorhaedus goral) was undertaken from November 1922 to May 1993 in Simbalbara Sanctuary (Himachal Pradesh) and Darpur Reserved Forest (Haryana). Data on availability of habitat types, vegetation types, slope, aspect and cover and their corresponding use (N=230 sightings), were collected along six search paths. Group size and activity pattern data were collected by walking along search paths and using instantaneous scan sampling. The broad habitat types identified were: Valley slope, Grassy slope, Ridge top flat, Nala slope, Valley bottom flat, Ridge top slope and Valley ridge slope. The vegetation types identified in the study area were: Sal forest (SF), mixed forest (MF), mixed forest grassy slope (MFGS), mixed forest riverine (MFR), sal forest riverine (SFR), pine-mixed woodland (PMW) and mixed forests with khai plantation (MFKP).The characteristic features of habitat and vegetation types and seasonal variations in them are discussed.The major findings of availability-utilization analysis were : Goral shewed preferential use of grassy slopes in summer. Valley bottom flat was used less in both the seasons. Mixed Forest was preferred in both seasons, whereas Mixed Forest Grassy Slopes were preferred only in summer. Sal Forest, Sal Forest Riverine and Mixed Forest with Khair Plantations were used less in both the seasons. A preferential use of the steep slopes was observed in winter. In summer there seemed to be no selection for terrain type. South facing slopes were preferred in both the seasons. Extremely low shrub cover and medium grass cover were selectively used by goral. Major features of goral group size and activity pattern were: Goral was predominantly a solitary species forming loose aggregations of upto eleven individuals. Average group size of goral did not vary significantly (N=230, d. f.=3, p=0.05, X" - 0.98) between seasons, but during late evening hours, comparatively larger groups were observed in winter (N=127, d.f.=4, p=<0.02, X2 - 12.42). Group sizes were comparatively larger in disturbed areas (N=230, d. f.=3, i i i p<0.01, = 12.75). A significant difference in proportion of time spent in different activities was observed (N=416, c/.f. = 8, p<0.001, X2 = 37.59), between winter and summer. Nevertheless, activities and proportions of active and inactive individuals varied significantly over different hours of the day (N=192, d.f.=2, p<0.01 , 10.43).
Identification of Galliformes using the Microstructure of Feathers: Preliminary Findings
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2007) Sivakumar, K; Goyal, S.P.; Mukherjee, S.K.
Nutritional Ecology of Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus) in Chilla Range of Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2009) Datta, Suniti Bhushan; Goyal, S.P.; Sathyakumar, S.
Responses of animals to the habitat has been the central focus for management of species and of these aspects, nutritional ecology has been the key issue in foraging behaviour studies and habitat studies. Therefore, the study focused on the nutritional aspect of forage selection by Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) in Chilla Range of Rajaji National Park. The main objectives were to determine whether habitat structural heterogeneity or nutritional quality of the selected food plant species was a determinant in the temporal and spatial habitat use by elephants and to determine the reasons behind seasonality in foraging. The study area of 148km2 in Chilla Range of Rajaji National Park was divided into twelve 2x2km grids, and these were further divided into 4 sub-grids each. In each sub-grid, a 1 km long line transect was laid and along this 10m radial plots were placed at 100m intervals. Vegetation data were collected to characterize the habitat structural heterogeneity in terms of number of trees of each species, height of canopy base, canopy volume, percent canopy cover, species diversity, species density and geo-spatial variables such as NDVI, standard deviation of slope, mean elevation and the proximity to water. Parts of 12 most-preferred plant species were collected in the study areas for estimating nitrogen, ash, acid detergent fibre, and macro and micro minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, copper, magnesium and zinc. During the study period from December 2008 to May 2009, Elephant response was determined in terms of dung density along the 1km transect in winter and in summer. The total number of trees in each grid varied from 124 to 268. Tree diversity ravged betweel) 0.456-1.454. Height of canopy base was mostly 1.5-3.0 m, although two grids showed extremely high canopy bases. Canopy volume ranged from 165.63m3 to 948.36m3 , although the majority of the grids showed a high variation in canopy volume in terms of standard deviation (SE). The percent canopy cover ranged from 54.13% to 93.72%. Most of the NDVI values were _high in the study area (>0.180), while one grid showed a low value of 0.143. For the standard deviation of slope, the values ranged from a low of 2.46 to a high of 8.46. The mean elevation of the study area ranged froin 391-840m a.s.l. Nutritional values estimated for most of the parameters in winter and summer from selected plant samples collected in the study area showed slight variations 4 between seasons. Percent nitrogen content indicated no seasonal difference (f=0.98, p=0.05, df=ll). The percent acid detergent fibre indicated a difference (P<0.05,df=I I) between the two seasons. Percent ash content was found not significantly different (p=O.l6, p=0.05, df=l1) between seasons. Amongst the macro and micro minerals, sodium content was significantly different across the two seasons. Potassium content was found to be significantly different across the seasons (p<0.05). Calcium content was also found to be significantly different between winter and summer (P<0.05). The copper content could not be compared across the seasons as in summer the levels present in plant samples were too low to be detected by the instrument. The difference in magnesium and zinc content across the two seasons were not significant (p=0.16 and P=0.31). Dung density in the grids across both seasons was non-uniform and highly skewed (p<0.05, df=47). The dung densities in both seasons were related more with the habitat heterogeneity variables than nutritional values obtained in each grid. The relationship between dung density and the number of plants was positive in the winter seasons (R2= 0.2848) and summer (R2= 0.4383), indicating that elephants are highly selective towards areas with higher numbers of woody plants. Plant species diversity indicated no influence on dung density in winter (R2= 0.00005), but showed a negative trend in summer (R2= 0.0154). The height of canopy base was negatively related to dung density, with elephants selecting areas with a mean canopy base height between 1.5-3.0m during both winter (R2=0.2288) and summer (R2=0.174). Dung density showed a negative trend when related to canopy volume in both seasons. The R2 value for winter is 0.2087 and in summer it is 0.1471. Percent canopy cover had a negative influence on the dung densities in winter (R~= 0.083) and in summer (R2= 0.1524). NDVI showed a negative relationship with dung densities in winter (R2=0.01l1) and a positive relationship in summer (R2= 0.1894). The relationship between the standard deviation of slope and dung density showed a negative trend in both winter, (R2=0.0033) as well as in summer (R2=0.0389). The higher elevation grids show a lower d/mg density during both winter (R2=0.216) and summer (R2=O.l443). The relationship between dung density and proximity to water in winter is negative (R2=0.1575) and the relationship remains negative (R2=0.1016) in summer. In relation to nitrogen content and dung density in winter there was a weak positive trend (R2=0.0256), while in summer there was a weak negative trend (R2=0.032). The relationship between dung densities and percent acid detergent fibre (ADF) in winter indicated a weak positive trend (R2=0.0012) and during summer, indicated a weak negative trend (R2=0.0657). In relation to percentage ash content (Fig. 4.29.), dung densities in winter indicated a weak positive trend" (R2=0.0114), while in summer there was a weak negative trend (R2=0.0641). When compared with sodium, dung densities showed a very weak positive trend (R2=0.0092) in winter and a negative trend in summer (R2=0.0834). In winter, when compared with dung densities potassium showed no trend (R2=0.001), but in summer, there was a weak negative trend (R2=0.0076). In winter, calcium does not show any relationship with dung densities (R2=0.0002), while in summer, there is a weak negative trend (R2= 0.0511). Magnesium content does not show any relationship with dung densities (Fig 4.33) in the winter season, (R2=0.0007), while in summer, there is a weak negative trend (R2=0.004). Zinc shows a weak positive trend (R2=0.0298) in winter and a weak negative trend (R2=0.026) in summer. Principal component analysis of nutritional parameters indicated nine components that were influencing dung density distribution in the study area in both the seasons, and hence no single parameter influenced elephant habitat use. The study clearly indicates that the distribution of elephants in Chilla Range of Rajaji National Park is more related to abundance of woody species and proximity of water, than the nutritional content in plant species. Principal component analysis showed that there was no single parameter that influenced dung distribution in the study area. This could be due to the fact that plant species selected for foraging by elephants contained an adequate amount of nutrients in most species for meeting foraging requirements .an d they probably meet their daily requirements by foraging on varied proportions of plant species.
Resource selection and resource partitioning among wild ungulates in the tropical semi-arid forest of Ranthambhore National Park. Rajasthan.
(Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2001) Bagchi, Sumanta; Goyal, S.P.; Sankar, K.
This study attempted to explore and describe the pattern of resource selection and inter-relationship in communal niche space of four species i.e. chital, sambar, nilgai and chinkara in dry deciduous semi arid forests of Ranthambhore national park, Rajasthan