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    Assessment of impacts on wildlife of Kedarnath Musk deer sanctuary due to helicopter services
    (WII and Uttarakhand State Forest Department, 2017) Sathyakumar, S.; Bhattacharya, T.; Arya, S.; Iyer, B.; Kumar, Arun; Kumar, A.; Mondal, K.; Umapathy, G.; Mathur, V.B.
    The Kedamath shrine is an important and famous Hindu religious site situated at 3 583 m near the source of the Mandakini River in Uttarakhand. For centunes, large numbers of pilgrims visit the shrine in the summer months. The stretch between Gaurikund and Rambara of the pilgrim route passes through the Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary (WS). Helicopter services were initiated during 2~07 -08 to ferry pilgrims. In June 2013, devastating flash floods swept through the region, and almost half of the old pilgrim route was damaged, and a new slightly longer route was constructed. After 2013, the number of helicopters operating daily flights to Kedarnath shrine increased dramatically. Some of the local residents raised concerns over the potential impact on wildlife of Kedarnath WS due to high intensity sound produced by the helicopters. Based on the request from Uttarakhand State Forest Department, the Wildlife Institute of India carried out a study to assess the impacts of helicopter flights on wildlife of Kedarnath WS and to suggest mitigation measures. The Mandakini valley was selected as the main study site, where the helicopter flights operate. The adjacent Kaliganga valley, and Shokharakh area were taken as control sites. The sampling was carried out in Mandakini valley in two different study periods - September to December 2015 and April to June 2016; coinciding with the helicopter flying period. Helicopter aviation data and noise levels in different elevation and habitat types were recorded in the Mandakini Valley to detect wildlife species presence, Trails (n=7) and vantage points (n=2) were sampled, and camera traps (11=23) were deployed. Comparative studies on wildlife species presence in Kaliganga Valley and Shokharkh (control sites) were carried out using trail sampling and camera trapping. Fresh faecal samples of wild mammals were collected from Mandakini Valley and the two control sites to analyse the levels of stress hormone using Enzyme Immuno-Assay procedure at the CCMB-LaCONES, Hyderabad. A detailed literature review was carried out on impacts of aircraft flights on wildlife carried out in different parts of the world to understand likely impacts on wildlife and various mitigation measures proposed. The results showed that May is the month when maximum number of flights operated (305/day) in Mandakini Valley followed by June and October, as Sersi helipad is nearest to Kedarnath, the onward journey to Kedarnath from Sersi reached the lowest mean flight height (152.4 ± 6.11 m). Noise levels recorded from six recording sites in Mandakini valley had a mean well above the 50 dB upper noise limit for silence zones. Negative correlation (R2 = 0.33 and 0.25) was observed between flight height and noise level for open coniferous and broadleaved forest. Presence of 20 mammal species (carnivore-8, ungulate-7, primate-2, rodent- 2, lagomorph-l) and five galliformes species (pheasants-3, partridge-2) has been confined from the study area. In. general, the study area is. already exposed to immense anthropogenic pressure (pilgrimage, constructions, etc) It is very difficult to decouple the effects of helicopter flying and other anthropogenic disturbances. Based on the findings of this study and a perusal of published information on Impacts of aircraft flights on wildlife the following conclusions are arrived at: ' I. All the commo~ wildlife species of Kedarnath WS are present in Mandakini valley. The comparison among the photo-capture rates of different wild animals depicts the consistent use of available habitat in the Mandakini valley despite a high level of helicopter operations. 2. Some wildlife species altered their activity pattern to either crepuscular or nocturnal due to the cumulative effects of anthropogenic pressures in this area mostly in the form of pilgrimage and associated human activities. However, in the case of Himalayan monal pheasant, there was a marginal overlap in peak activity period with that of peak helicopter operations. 3. Results of stress hormone studies are in-conclusive due to low sample sizes. However, the results can be used as baseline for future comparative studies on similar investigations pertaining to helicopter flight impacts on wildlife. 4. Taking the above three observations into consideration, it appears that most of the mammals have adapted to the anthropogenic disturbances in Mandakini valley. However, repeated observations in the future would be needed to draw robust conclusions. 5. There is a high negative correlation between flying height and noise levels and the current levels of noise due to anthropogenic activities and helicopter flights. Thus, prescribing a minimal flight height would be useful to reduce the noise levels. 6. Helicopter sorties ranged from 2 to >300 flights per day in Mandakini Valley. Since most of the mammals appear to have adapted to this level of noise, it should not be allowed to go beyond the current levels of helicopter flights. Therefore, efforts has to be made to ensure that the upper limit for number of flights per day does not exceed 300 flights/day. The study recommends the following measures: 1. Restricting helicopter flight heights to at least 600 m (2000 ') with the exception of take-off and landing times. This would help in reducing noise levels in the area. 2. Monitoring the helicopter operations with regard to adherence to the prescribed heights will be required. This could be done using laser distometers or lidar guns or set up an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Monitoring of impacts of helicopter flights on wildlife could be carried out on a regular basis (every 3 to 5 years) including stress hormone studies so that a comprehensive database can be developed for rigorous statistical analysis 3. As a long-term measure, passenger ropeway for transportation of pilgrims as educe pilgrim foot falls in the trekking path to the shrine and helicopter services. The passenger ropeway will not require building a motorable road through the Kedarnath WS as all the material and machines required for building ropeway could be transported by air using specialized helicopters.
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    Assessment of wildlife values of the Ganga river from Bijnor to Ballia including Turtle Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh
    (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2018) WII
    Freshwater ecosystems, especially riverine systems, give rise to unique habitat mosaics, which support distinctive biodiversity and provide substantial ecosystem services, creating a strong imperative for their protection and restoration. They are being impacted globally by divergent but frequently concurrent processes including water pollution, over-fishing, alteration of natural flow regime, invasive species, climate change and human-induced habitat loss. These dynamic systems are often poorly protected, and require conservation measures through systematic planning. Systematic Conservation Planning (SCP) is widely considered as the most influential paradigm to identify and bring areas under protection through effective planning and spatial prioritization. The SCP requires an evaluation of sites for their biodiversity values, habitat heterogeneity, habitat dynamics, and existing human-induced habitat alteration factors. The Ganga River is the lifeline to more than 500 million people as it flows through five riparian states. It also harbours a unique assemblage of biodiversity due to its passage through three distinct biogeographic zones and unique habitat mosaics. Apart from nurturing umbrella species like the Gangetic river dolphin, otters, gharial and muggel; the Ganga River basin is recognized as a Global Turtle Priority Area and a Turtle Biodiversity Hotspot. With the aim of protecting and consel1'if7g the diverse array of biota and their habitats, a 7 km stretch of the Ganga River between Rajghat (Malviya Bridge) to Ramnagar Fort in Varanasi District, Uttar Pradesh was declared as the Kachhua Vanyajiv Abhyaranya (Turtle Wildlife Sanctuary - TWS). Although declared a protected area, increase in riverbank agriculture, river traffic, water pollution through sewage and solid wastes are posing a threat to the biodiversity of TWS and the river-riparian habitats. High human disturbance in the form of cultural-religious activities are influencing the biological values of TWS. Considering the above, a rapid assessment study (March- July, 2018) was conducted in the TWS to evaluate its efficacy as a protected area; and to identify areas for effective biodiversity conservation. Stretch of the Ganga River between Bijnor to Ballia in Uttar Pradesh was evaluated following Systematic Conservation Planning approach. The objectives of this study were (1) Assessment of habitat structure of TWS and to detect changes over time, (2) Evaluation of efficacy of TWS and adjoining riverscape as a refugia for species of conservation concern; and (3) Prioritization of the Ganga River stretches with mosaics of riverine habitats for conservation planning. A spatial assessment using remote sensing data for the period 1974 to 2016 revealed no significant changes in river channel and sand deposition in the TWS. However, -28% increase in the vegetation cover was observed which could be attributed to the protection accorded to the riparian areas by the Forest Department compared with an expansion of agricultural areas on the landward side. Out of 13 species of turtle reported from Ganga River, only 5 species were encountered during the field sampling with the combined efforts of visual encounter surveys and in-stream sampling using gill nets and box traps within the TWS and upstream and downstream of the Sanctuary limit. Very low encounter rate of turtles in TWS indicates high human disturbance leading to habitat alterations within a very small Protected Area. Sites along the TWS in the left bank are seen to have the least suitable habitat for turtles with high anthropogenic disturbances such as cemented ghats, intense ferry and boat activity, pollution, and human presence along the river. The sand bar in the right bank of the TWS, though is an excellent habitat for turtles and breeding birds, is also under severe anthropogenic pressure. Out of64 species offish reported/rom the Middle Ganga stretch. a total 0/45 species belonging to 38 genera, 16 family and five orders were recorded during the sampling period. The fish catch was higher inside TWS as compared to upstream and downstream o/the sanctuary and this could be attributed to prohibition o/fishing within the Sanctuary limits. A total of28 species of birds were observed, of which four species were of threatened categories as per the IUCN Red List. Nests of breeding birds were not observed from the TWS due to high biotic disturbance. A nesting site of the Indian Skimmer was identified at approximately 6 km upstream of the Sanctuary. Five pairs of Indian Skimmer and 14 pairs of Little tern, 4 pairs of River Lapwing a Near Threatened Species were observed/rom the vicinity. A rapid assessment of wildlife values was conducted in the entire stretch of the Ganga River falling within Uttar Pradesh and priority areas were identified through a scoring matrix. Kruskal's Multidimensional Scale analysis described the habitat parameters that influence species distribution. These parameters were sand mining, channel depth. fishing activities, presence of village/town and riverbed agriculture. Channel depth is the only factor which is positively influencing species distribution. Based on the scoring matrix, the highest biological value was attributed to a river stretch within the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, followed by the stretch from Brijghat to Narora, which is notified Ramsar Site. In addition to these, moderate biological value was assigned to the stretch downstream of Newada till Ballia. Habitat characteristic score (channel depth, meanders and river islands) was high in the downstream of Allahabad, till Ballia as this stretch persistently maintains high depth classes, meanders and river islands representing a complex mosaic of habitats. The anthropogenic influence scores was almost similar in the entire stretch from Bijnor barrage to Ballia as the river bed agriculture was prominent in the upper stretch. whereas fishing, sand mining, and human settlements were prevalent in the lower stretch of the river. The stretch between Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary and Narora already enjoys the protected area status. In spite of the protected status, TWS scored low due to its small size and high human disturbance. Based on the combined scores, a 140 Ian stretch downstream Newada in Allahabad district to Adalpur in Mirzapur district has been considered as the priority stretch for conservation. It is suggested that this area may be brought under the purview of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 by declaring it as a wildlife sanctuary for the conservation of aquatic biodiversity of the Ganga River in Uttar Pradesh. Since the ecological characteristics and wildlife values vary along this 140 Ian stretch on account of anthropogenic pressures, harmonization for excluding some areas having high anthropogenic pressures on account of intense cultural-religious uses may be required, and to be done by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department.
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    Ecological Reconnaissance and conservation assessment of avifauna in Sahyadri Tiger Reserve
    (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2018) Sati, Surabhi; Vishwakarma, Anurag; Singh, Ashutosh; Ben, Clement; Gopi, G.V.
    The Western Ghats have been designated a World Heritage Site by UfiESCO because of their Outstanding Universal Values (OUVs), and they support several threatened plant and animal species. The birds of the Western Ghats have received a great deal of academic and conservation attention because of their endemism and the conservation threats they face. However, SUM MAR Y there is only limited empirical ecological information on the avifauna of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR). Hence, a systematic study of the avifauna 'lias required to fill the existing knowledge gap and for long-term conservation. This study was initiated in collaboration with STR, Maharashtra and Wildlife Institute of India. The study was conducted between October 2015 and February 2018. The area was divided into four major habitat types, namely agriculture land, grassland, shrubland and forest. The aim of the study was to assess the conservation importance of STR with respect to the avifauna by, understanding the diversity, abundance and habitat utilization in relation to the anthropogenic pressure in different seasons (autumn, winter, summer) . Systematic field data were collected using the point count method to determine the distribution and abundance of species. The bird species, number of individuals (male, female and juvenile), habitat variables, vegetation characteristics and disturbance variables were recorded and quantified. The bird abundances and diversities of the different habitat types were compared and related to habitat features. Bird densities were estimated using the distance sampling method. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H') was used to determine the species diversity. The Spearman correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between the bird abundance and the habitat features within habitat types. A total of 218 species of bird belonging to 55 families were recorded during the study. Seven of these are threatened species. The highest number of recorded species (30) was in the family Accipitridae. Seven endemic birds of the Western Ghats were also recorded. We found that there is a significant relation between the bird density and diversity within a habitat type across the three sampling seasons. In autumn, the density ranged from 733. 7 5 ± 63.14 to 485 .91 ±46.01 per Kml. The highest density was recorded in agriculture land and the lowest in forest. In winter the density ranged from 1573.3 ± 90.27 to 519.83 ± 31.43, the highest being in agriculture land and the lowest in forest. In summer the density ranged from 900.59 ± 58.58 to 403.00 ± 39.97, the highest being in shrubland and the lowest in grassland. The study found higher bird densities in autumn and winter in areas with highly intense agriculture activities as human disturbed areas such as agriculture areas provide heterogeneous habitats that attract human-tolerant bird species. It was also observed that during summer, shrubland had the highest density of birds whereas the lowest density was in grassland and agriculture land. In summer the grasslands and agriculture lands were usually dry. Farmers burn field residues, and hence shrubland provided a more open habitat that supports shrubs that provide food and canopy cover for different bird species. Unlike the bird density, the diversity of the avifauna was high in forest in all three seasons. In autumn, the diversity index values ranged from 3.867 to 3.533, and in winter the diversity index values ranged from 3.895 to 3. 551.ln summer the diversity index values ranged from 3. 941 to 3. 258. The diversity was highest in forest and lowest in grassland in all three seasons. We observed unusual flowering of the Dhak, Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub. (Fabaceae). The flowering time of the species is March-April though sometimes it also flowers in late February and the flowering lasts till early May. Notably, during our of the field surveys, we observed 10 fully grown individuals of B. monosperma in full bloom from mid November to late December in Chandoli National Park and Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. Through continuous monitoring of these individuals in the tiger reserve t:le confirmed unusual phenological events that have not been reported earlier for this species. The change in phenological events of this species could be attributed to climatic change, irregular drought patterns or genetic factors, albeit further research is needed. The study reveals the relationship between avifauna species richness and habitat patterns and addresses the effects of anthropogenic pressure on avian species richness and its distribution patterns. Also, this study provides evidence that settlement are as can serve as refuges for birds. Therefore, conservation efforts should be directed towards making communities view human-occupied areas as habitats for birds and not as lost habitats. Hence scientific understanding backed by empirical evidence about the process and patterns of avifaunal assemblages in STR can be used to formulate a robust conservation plan for the birds of the reserve.
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    Assessment and conservation practices of pollinators through community participation in the Indian Trans-Himalayan region: Climate change perspectives
    (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2020) Uniyal, V.P.; Chauhan, Mona; Chandra, A.; Mehrwar, Vandana; Thakur, P.; Singh, A.P.
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    An Ecological assessment of Baan Ganga wetland, Uttaranchal
    (Uttaranchal Forest Department and Wildlife Institute of India, 2006) Rawat, G.S.; Pandav, Bivash; Mathur, V.B.; Sankar, K.; Hussain, S.A.; Adhikari, B.S.; Sinha, B.C.; Pandav, Bivash; Sivakumar, K.; Padalia, H.; Chaturvedi, R.K.; Babu, M.M.
    An Ecological Survey of Baan Ganga Wetlands in Haridwar Forest Division, Uttaranchal was conducted during January to November 2006 by a team of faculty and researchers from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) Dehra Dun. The study components include rapid assessment of the flora, fauna (mammals, birds and fishes), water and soil quality of the area, mapping of the conservation reserve and designing of interpretive facility for the wetland. 2. Baan Ganga wetland represents a remnant Terai habitat in Uttranchal. Occurrence of endangered swamp deer and a variety of floral and faunal communities typical of Terai habitat amidst human dominated landscape warrants careful co-management approach. A total of 178 plant species were recorded from the Baan Ganga wetlands. Of these, 40 species were hydrophytic, 122 species semi-aquatic and 117 mesophytic. Detailed list of the flora along with their habitat and photographic records have been provided. 3. The survey area faces heavy anthropogenic pressures including heavy livestock grazing, fishing, pollution from the untreated sugar mill effluents, cutting and burning of natural vegetation and agricultural encroachment. Despite several pressures the area continues to attract a variety of wetland birds and has tremendous opportunity for developing a popular eco-tourist destination and thereby creating new opportunities in education, recreation, eco-tourism and research in the area. 4. Based on the rapid ecological surveys on various aspects, following major recommendations are given for the conservation and management of the Baan Ganga area: (i) Maintenance of stream flow all through the year (ii) Traditional fishing as in practice at preset may be continued (iii) Initiate a project to promote aquaculture (iv) Initiate conservation awareness programme for the local people especially about the adverse impact of pesticide use in the agriculture fields around the Baan Ganga. There should be a check on the release of effluents from the industries which are located on the upstream areas. Effluents must be treated before releasing into the natural system (v) Maintain heterogeneity in vegetation types. Aquatic weeds are required to be managed properly in year-wise plan. There should not be any construction along the banks of river which will change the hydrological system hence there will be change in the vegetation types. Cattle grazing needs to be regulated and a proper rotational grazing system needs to be implemented in consultation with the local communities (vi) Control of water hyacinth by utilizing this species as a compost / green manure (vii) Regulate exploitation of Phragmites and Typha and (viii) Develop an interpretation centre highlighting the biological and conservation significance of this area for development of eco-tourism.
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    Comparative study of man-leopard conflict and socio-economic impacts on rural community in Mandi and Hamirpur districts, Himachal Pradesh (2004-2008)
    (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2010) Chauhan, N.P.S.; Kumar, Devende; Sharma, Lalit Kumar
    Objectives of the study are : To prepare land cover and landuse pattern maps and determine areas suitable to leopard using Geographical Information System. ii. To study distribution and relative abundance of leopard in relation to habitat characteristics (terrain and vegetation). iii. To assess impacts of biotic pressures on leopard habitat. iv. To study nature and extent of man-leopard conflict problems in relation to land use pattern. v. To study food habits in relation to prey species (wild and domestic) availability. vi. To study the socio-economic impacts of leopard menace on rural community. vii. To make comparison of man-leopard conflict problem of Mandi and Hamirpur districts with that of Pauri Garhwal. viii. To suggest measures to minimize/contain man-leopard conflict in Mandi and Hamirpur districts. ix. To develop education awareness package for people living in the vicinity of man leopard conflict areas
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    Ecological Effects of road through sensitive habitats implications for wildlife conservation : Executive summary
    (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2012) Rajvanshi, Asha; Mathur, V.B.; Pragatheesh
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    Dugong distribution, habitat and risks due to Fisheries and other anthropogenic activities in India
    (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2013) Sivakumar, K.; Nair, A.
    The dugong (Dugong dugon), also called the sea cow, is one of the four surviving species in the order Sirenia, and it is the only existing species of herbivorous mammal that lives exclusively in the sea, including Indian waters. Conservation of the dugong, which is a flagship species, represents coastal conservation. This protected species occurs in the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Gulf of Kutch and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The population of the dugong, which was once abundant, is assumed to have reduced to about 200 individuals in India. This number and the range of the dugong are believed to be continuously declining. Several reasons have been attributed to the decline in the dugong population, including sea grass habitat loss and degradation, gill netting, disease, water pollutants, indigenous use and poaching. This study was initiated to understand the dugong’s current distribution range and the magnitude of the anthropogenic threats faced by it and its habitat in India. The objectives include (1) determining the status and distribution of the dugong population in India, (2) understanding the risks faced by the dugong populations and their habitats, (3) assessing the status of artisanal fisheries in identified dugong habitats, (4) identifying the key areas where dugongs are present to conserve them and (5) understanding the attitude of fishermen towards conservation of dugongs. Three zones, namely the Gulf of Kutch, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Gulf of Mannar–Palk Bay were identified as the study area on the basis of information published on dugong sightings, stranding records and seagrass presence. A standardised dugong catch/bycatch questionnaire developed by the CMS-UNEP Dugong MOU Panel was used for interview surveys after it was translated into regional languages. Region-specific threats to the dugong and its habitat were identified. Occupancy models were built in the program PRESENCE to identify critical dugong habitats using dugong sighting data from the past 5 years (2008 to 2012). The range of variables that influenced occupancy and detection were also assessed. Dugong occupancy was greatest in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay, followed by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and lowest in the Gulf of Kutch. At present, the overall occupancy of the dugong in Indian waters is estimated to be 11% of the total surveyed area. Only 21% of the area sampled in Tamil Nadu was found to be occupied by dugongs. The corresponding proportion was 12% in the iii Andaman and Nicobar Islands and 1% in the Gulf of Kutch. Overall, the dugong distribution range has significantly decreased by about 85% in the distribution range of the dugong in India. Dugongs are also exist in regions outside the existing protected area (PA) network. Thus, conservation planning should also focus on dugong habitats outside PAs. Preventive measures, such as affording greater protection to dugongs and making fisheries sustainable with dugong friendly gear and craft, especially in the critical dugong habitats identified, are recommended. It is of the utmost importance to secure and strengthen community participation in the management of dugongs and their habitats in India. Model
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    Spatial mapping of important marine habitats of Malvan Coast for re-organization of boundary of the Malvan Marine Sanctuary
    (Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, 2023) Shinde, N.; Bayana, S.; Sarkar, D.; Pande, A.; Sivakumar, K.; Talukdar, Gautam
    Malvan Marine Sanctuary is a Marine Protected Area located in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra state. Known for its rich biodiversity, it is grappling with increasing anthropogenic pressure necessitating a comprehensive study to assess its habitats and threats. Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of 2017-2018 team had suggested for boundary reorganization to exclude areas of human intervention and to include important habitats and areas with high biodiversity for the better management of biodiversity off the coast of Malvan. The project has undertaken because high tourism zone are areas with high anthropogenic pressure within the core zone of the sanctuary. Coral reefs and its associated fish fauna were surveyed at nine sampling sites. The total hard coral cover was observed to be 28% while the seagrass cover was observed to be 3% in 21 sampling sites. 19 genera of corals were identified. Favites sp.was observed to be the most abundant (19.18%). Within the sanctuary, Seagrass patches were identified at five sampling sites namely King’s Garden 1, King’s Garden 2, King’s Garden 3, Dharan and Donor site. 122 species of fish belonging to 38 families were observed during underwater surveys. Fish-market surveys were conducted to study the species composition and size-class of fish species caught around the sanctuary. A total of 44 different fish species were observed during market surveys. Beach litter surveys were conducted to assess the anthropogenic stress along the Malvan coastline. Debris in the form of polythene was the major contributing litter type at all three sections of the beach. The rocky outcrops along the coast were observed to be roosting sites for avifaunal species namely, White-bellied Sea Eagles, Pigeons, Swiftlets, etc. Spatial prioritization of the marine habitats revealed potential PA’s include Kawda, 7 rocks, Lighthouse area, covering an area of 29.07 sq.km; conservation priority areas comprising Chiwla, and Sargassm covering a total area of 19.21 sq. km and King’s garden (3.534 sq km) as sensitive area. Strategies to conserve these areas for long term conservation. should be planned. Spatial mapping of important marine habitats of Malvan coast for re-organization of boundary of the Malvan Marine Sanctuary