Babu R Lamichhane | National Trust for Nature Conservation, Nepal (original) (raw)
Papers by Babu R Lamichhane
iForest - Biogeosciences and Forestry, 2016
Scientific Reports
Forest cover is the primary determinant of elephant distribution, thus, understanding forest loss... more Forest cover is the primary determinant of elephant distribution, thus, understanding forest loss and fragmentation is crucial for elephant conservation. We assessed deforestation and patterns of forest fragmentation between 1930 and 2020 in Chure Terai Madhesh Lanscape (CTML) which covers the entire elephant range in Nepal. Forest cover maps and fragmentation matrices were generated using multi-source data (Topographic maps and Landsat satellite images of 1930, 1975, 2000, and 2020) and spatiotemporal change was quantified. At present, 19,069 km2 forest cover in CTML is available as the elephant habitat in Nepal. Overall, 21.5% of elephant habitat was lost between 1930 and 2020, with a larger (12.3%) forest cover loss between 1930 and 1975. Area of the large forests (Core 3) has decreased by 43.08% whereas smaller patches (Core 2, Core 1, edge and patch forests) has increased multifold between 1930 and 2020. The continued habitat loss and fragmentation probably fragmented elephant ...
Oryx
Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigri... more Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigris is essential for effective conservation as well as to evaluate the success of conservation programmes. We monitored tigers in Parsa Widlife Reserve, Nepal, using camera traps, in 2013, 2014 and 2016. Once believed to be a sink for tigers from adjacent Chitwan National Park, Parsa now provides a new hope for tigers. Spatially explicit capture–recapture analysis over 3 survey years revealed an increase in tiger density from 0.78 to 1.38 individuals per 100 km2 from 2013 to 2016. The tiger abundance was estimated to be seven (6–13), 11 (10–16) and 17 (17–20) in 2013, 2014 and 2016, respectively. Resettlement of communities from the core area, reduced anthropogenic pressure, and improved security have made Parsa Wildlife Reserve a suitable habitat for tigers. Tiger abundance increased considerably within a 5 km radius of the evacuated village sites, from two in 2013 to eight in 2014 and 10...
Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigri... more Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigris is essential for effective conservation as well as to evaluate the success of conservation programmes. We monitored tigers in Parsa Widlife Reserve, Nepal, using camera traps, in , and . Once believed to be a sink for tigers from adjacent Chitwan National Park, Parsa now provides a new hope for tigers. Spatially explicit capture-recapture analysis over survey years revealed an increase in tiger density from . to . individuals per km from to . The tiger abundance was estimated to be seven (-), (-) and (-) in , and , respectively. Resettlement of communities from the core area, reduced anthropogenic pressure, and improved security have made Parsa Wildlife Reserve a suitable habitat for tigers. Tiger abundance increased considerably within a km radius of the evacuated village sites, from two in to eight in and in . Population turnover has remained moderate (, % per year), with persistence of individuals in multiple years. Dispersing tigers from Chitwan's source population accounted for a large portion (c. %) of the tigers detected in Parsa. Conservation efforts along with annual monitoring should be continued in Parsa to sustain the increase and monitor the persistence of tigers. The Chitwan-Parsa complex should be managed as a single ecological unit for conserving the Endangered tiger and other wide-ranging species.
Journal of Threatened Taxa, 2019
An increasing intensity of camera traps recorded the presence of poorly known and globally... more An increasing intensity of camera traps recorded the presence of poorly known and globally Endangered Asiatic Wild Dogs Cuon alpinus from different locations in recent years in Nepal. After 18 years since the previous report, we recorded 29 photos and a video of Dholes in four independent detections with an effort of 4,035 trap-nights during camera trap surveys targeted at tigers in the winter of 2016/2017. Solitary dholes were camera-trapped from four locations within 27.45km2 area in Bardia National Park. The evidence of a dead Dhole probably killed in retaliation shows the threat to the species. Dholes co-exist in Bardia with sympatric carnivores like Tiger Panthera tigris, Leopard Panthera pardus, and Jackal Canis aureus.
Human Ecology, 2019
Buffer zones around parks/reserves are designed to maintain ecological integrity and to ensure co... more Buffer zones around parks/reserves are designed to maintain ecological integrity and to ensure community participation in biodiversity conservation. We studied the fund utilization pattern of buffer zone programs, mitigation measures practiced, and attitudes of residents in buffer zone programs of Chitwan National Park, Nepal. The buffer zone committees spent only a small portion (13.7%) of their budget in direct interventions to reduce wildlife impacts. Human-wildlife conflicts were inversely related to investment in direct interventions for conflict prevention and mitigation. Peoples’ attitudes towards wildlife conservation were largely positive. Most of the people were aware of buffer zone programs but were not satisfied with current practices. We recommend that buffer zone funds be concentrated into direct interventions (prevention and mitigation) to reduce wildlife conflicts. Our findings will be helpful in prioritizing distribution of funds in buffer zones of parks and reserves.
Mikania micarantha (Mikania) is one of the world’s 100 worst weeds and the primary invasive speci... more Mikania micarantha (Mikania) is one of the world’s 100 worst weeds and the primary invasive species in Chitwan National Park (CNP), Nepal. Following a Mikania survey in 2008, an additional survey was carried out in 2011 as part of greater one-horned rhinoceros (rhino) censuses to measure the extent of change of Mikania invasion in major rhino habitats in CNP. 2008 survey protocols were adopted: a plot including a half-circle of 50 m radius in front of a researcher was surveyed from elephant back for the ocular estimation of Mikania cover. Mikania coverage was quantified in the scales of 0, 1 and 2 where 0 - Mikania absent, 1 - Mikania present but less than 50 % coverage and 2 - Mikania covering more than 50% of the plot area. Mikania was found present (1 and 2 combined) in 43.3% (n=3073) of the plots in 2011 and this was approximately the same as of 2008. In 2011, as in 2008, the preferred rhino habitats - wetland, tall grassland, riverine forest - were found to have higher level of...
Yellow-throated Marten Martes flavigula has a wide geographic distribution, but little is known a... more Yellow-throated Marten Martes flavigula has a wide geographic distribution, but little is known about its ecology and behaviour. A camera-trap survey in and around Chitwan National Park, Nepal, photographed a solitary Marten carrying a Small Indian Civet Viverricula indica. The animal was in a grassland patch amid Sal Shorea robusta forest. It is unclear whether the Marten killed the Civet. Recent camera-trap surveys suggest that Yellow-throated Marten is widespread in Chitwan NP with records from altitudes of 190–675 m; many records are from Sal forest.
Wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses often result in reduced support of local communiti... more Wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses often result in reduced support of local communities for wildlife conservation. Information on spatial and temporal patterns of such losses in the highly affected areas contribute in designing and implementing effective mitiga-tion measures. We analyzed the loss of humans, livestock and property caused by wildlife during 1998 to 2016, using victim family's reports to Chitwan National Park authorities and Buffer Zone User Committees. A total of 4,014 incidents were recorded including attacks on humans, livestock depredation, property damage and crop raiding caused by 12 wildlife species. In total >400,000 US dollar was paid to the victim families as a relief over the whole period. Most of the attacks on humans were caused by rhino, sloth bear, tiger, elephant, wild boar and leopard. A significantly higher number of conflict incidents caused by rhino and elephant were observed during full moon periods. An increase in the wildlife population did not coincide with an equal rise in conflict incidents reported. Underprivileged ethnic communities were attacked by wildlife more frequently than expected. Number of attacks on humans by carnivores and herbivores did not differ significantly. An insignificant decreasing trend of wildlife attacks on humans and livestock was observed with significant variation over the years. Tiger and leopard caused >90% of livestock depredation. Tigers killed both large (cattle and buffalo) and medium sized (goat, sheep, pig) livestock but leopard mostly killed medium sized livestock. Most (87%) of the livestock killing during 2012–2016 occurred within the stall but close (<500m) to the forest edge. Both the percentage of households with livestock and average holding has decreased over the years in buffer zone. Decreased forest dependency as well as conflict mitigation measures (electric and mesh wire fences) have contributed to keep the conflict incidents in control. Strengthening mitigation measures like construction of electric or mesh wire fences and predator-proof livestock corrals along with educating local communities about wildlife behavior and timely management of problem animals (man-eater tiger, rage elephant etc.) will contribute to reduce the conflict.
Wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses often result in reduced support of local communiti... more Wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses often result in reduced support of local communities for wildlife conservation. Information on spatial and temporal patterns of such losses in the highly affected areas contribute in designing and implementing effective mitiga-tion measures. We analyzed the loss of humans, livestock and property caused by wildlife during 1998 to 2016, using victim family's reports to Chitwan National Park authorities and Buffer Zone User Committees. A total of 4,014 incidents were recorded including attacks on humans, livestock depredation, property damage and crop raiding caused by 12 wildlife species. In total >400,000 US dollar was paid to the victim families as a relief over the whole period. Most of the attacks on humans were caused by rhino, sloth bear, tiger, elephant, wild boar and leopard. A significantly higher number of conflict incidents caused by rhino and elephant were observed during full moon periods. An increase in the wildlife population did not coincide with an equal rise in conflict incidents reported. Underprivileged ethnic communities were attacked by wildlife more frequently than expected. Number of attacks on humans by carnivores and herbivores did not differ significantly. An insignificant decreasing trend of wildlife attacks on humans and livestock was observed with significant variation over the years. Tiger and leopard caused >90% of livestock depredation. Tigers killed both large (cattle and buffalo) and medium sized (goat, sheep, pig) livestock but leopard mostly killed medium sized livestock. Most (87%) of the livestock killing during 2012–2016 occurred within the stall but close (<500m) to the forest edge. Both the percentage of households with livestock and average holding has decreased over the years in buffer zone. Decreased forest dependency as well as conflict mitigation measures (electric and mesh wire fences) have contributed to keep the conflict incidents in control. Strengthening mitigation measures like construction of electric or mesh wire fences and predator-proof livestock corrals along with educating local communities about wildlife behavior and timely management of problem animals (man-eater tiger, rage elephant etc.) will contribute to reduce the conflict.
The main objectives of the Nepal National Mammal Red Data Book (RDB) were to provide comprehensiv... more The main objectives of the Nepal National Mammal Red Data Book (RDB) were to provide comprehensive and up-to-date accounts of 212 mammal species recorded in Nepal, assess their status applying the IUCN Guidelines at Regional Levels, identify threats and recommend the most practical measures for their conservation. It is hoped that the Mammal RDB will help Nepal achieve the Convention on Biological Diversity target of preventing the extinction of known threatened species and improving their conservation status. Of the 212 mammal species assessed, 49 species (23%) were listed as nationally threatened. These comprise nine (18%) Critically Endangered species, 26 (53%) Endangered species and 14 (29%) Vulnerable species. One species was considered regionally Extinct. A total of seven species (3%) were considered Near Threatened and 83 species (39%) were Data Deficient. Over sixty percent of Nepal’s ungulates are threatened and almost half of Nepal’s carnivores face extinction (45% threatened). Bats and small mammals are the least known groups with 60 species being Data Deficient. Habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation are the most significant threats. Other significant threats include illegal hunting, small and fragmented populations, reduction of prey base, human wildlife conflict and persecution, climate change, invasive species, disease and inadequate knowledge and research. Adequate measures to address these threats are described. It was also concluded that re-assessments of the status of certain mammal groups be carried out every five years and the setting up of a national online species database and mapping system would also greatly help in land-use planning and policies.
International Bear News , 2017
In Nepal, the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) occurs across the Middle Hills but not in the... more In Nepal, the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) occurs across the Middle Hills but not in the lowland Terai of Nepal, which is occupied by the sloth bear ( Melursus ursinus ). A single record exists, from a camera trapping survey in 1999 - 2000, of a Himalayan black bear in the Babai Valley (along the Babai River) of Bardia National Park (Jnawali et al. 2011). During 2016 camera trap survey in Baria, we recorded 3 photos of a solitary Himalayan black bear from a single location along the riverbed in Babai Valley on March 5, 2016. The bear capture location was in the eastern part of BNP, 27 km east of the camera trap photo of a black bear in 2000, and approx. 3 km from the border of Banke NP. Scat and tracks of a bear were also recorded at multiple locations beyond the camera trap location. Sloth bears have been recorded in Bardia regularly, including the Babai valley. Although the evidence for presence of black bears in this valley is sporadic, these records suggest a marginal overlap with sloth bears in Nepal. A targeted study to better understand this dynamic would be very useful.
Systematic Camera trapping on the Barandabhar Corridor Forest recorded the presence of the endang... more Systematic Camera trapping on the Barandabhar Corridor Forest recorded the presence of the endangered Wild Dog/Dhole in the area. A total of 1320 camera trap night efforts were conducted in the area in two blocks from 15th Dec 2015 to 20th Jan 2016. A single picture of dhole was captured and was sympatric with other large carnivores like tiger Panthera tigris tigris, leopard P. pardus, and golden jackal Canis aureus. This first record of Dhole outside the National Park opened a new gate for officials, wildlife conservationist, scientific communities, managers to think about its conservation. It also adds the proof of the healthy functionality of this corridor.
Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigri... more Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigris is essential for effective conservation as well as to evaluate the success of conservation programmes. We monitored tigers in Parsa Widlife Reserve, Nepal, using camera traps, in 2013, 2014 and 2016. Once believed to be a sink for tigers from adjacent Chitwan National Park, Parsa now provides a new hope for tigers. Spatially explicit capture–recapture analysis over 3 survey years revealed an increase in tiger density from 0.78 to 1.38 individuals per 100 km2 from 2013 to 2016. The tiger abundance was estimated to be seven (6–13), 11 (10–16) and 17 (17–20) in 2013, 2014 and 2016, respectively. Resettlement of communities from the core area, reduced anthropogenic pressure, and improved security have made Parsa Wildlife Reserve a suitable habitat for tigers. Tiger abundance increased considerably within a 5 km radius of the evacuated village sites, from two in 2013 to eight in 2014 and 10 in 2016. Population turnover has remained moderate (< 30% per year), with persistence of individuals in multiple years. Dispersing tigers from Chitwan's source population accounted for a large portion (c. 40%) of the tigers detected in Parsa. Conservation efforts along with annual monitoring should be continued in Parsa to sustain the increase and monitor the persistence of tigers. The Chitwan–Parsa complex should be managed as a single ecological unit for conserving the Endangered tiger and other wide-ranging species.
We analyzed characteristics of the problem-causing tigers in Chitwan National Park (Nepal) to det... more We analyzed characteristics of the problem-causing tigers in Chitwan National Park (Nepal) to determine if specific groups or individuals in the source population have higher probability to get involved in conflicts with humans. From 2007 to 2016 we identified a total of 22 such tigers including 13 that killed humans, six serial livestock killers and three tigers that threatened human safety (with no reported human and livestock casualty). Thirteen of these tigers were controlled or killed and four were relocated. We compared a subset of 15 'problem tigers' involved in conflict between 2009 and 2013 with the Chit-wan's tiger population obtained from three different sessions of camera trapping (2009, 2010 and 2013). We found that <5% of this source population (tigers recorded in camera trap) were involved in conflict. We conclude that transient tigers without a territory or physically impaired animals are more likely to be involved in conflict and recommend an early warning system be adopted to anticipate conflicts before they occur. This system should include regular monitoring and timely identification of problem tigers followed by decisive management action to either remove the tiger or encourage local people to modify their behavior to reduce the risk of conflict.
As part of a landscape-scale programme for conserving tigers Panthera tigris the Khata corridor w... more As part of a landscape-scale programme for conserving tigers Panthera tigris the Khata corridor was established between Bardia National Park in Nepal and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in India in early 2000. We examined its functionality by comparing the status of tigers and prey in the corridor and in the adjacent National Park, using camera trapping, transect sampling and diet analysis of scats. Tiger movement was inferred from the photographs, and tiger–human conflict was assessed by means of questionnaires and interviews. The corridor harboured transient individuals as well as resident, breeding tigers. Tigers with core areas in the corridor were also recorded in the two protected areas, and vice versa. Wild prey was 3–4 times more abundant in the area of the National Park bordering the corridor than in the corridor itself, and domestic livestock constituted 12–15% of the tigers’ food in the corridor. Livestock losses and human fatalities or injuries were relatively low compared to within the buffer zones of the National Parks. Despite such problems and restrictions on grazing and extraction of natural resources, local residents were generally positive towards tigers and the corridor. The successful establishment of the corridor and the positive attitudes of local people were attributable to community development programmes initiated to compensate for the imposed restrictions, financed by the government and national and international organizations. By linking Bardia National Park and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary via the Khata corridor, a protected tiger landscape of c. 3,000 km2 was established in west-central Nepal and northern India.
A study was carried out in the upper Seti Khola forests of Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal i... more A study was carried out in the upper Seti Khola forests of Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal in winter and spring of 2008 to estimate the abundance of Galliformes and map their habitat suitability at a landscape level. Dawn call counts for Hill Partridge Arborophila torqueola, Satyr Tragopan Tragopan satyra and Koklass Pheasant Pucrasia macrolopha, and trail walks for other galliform species were carried out in the altitudinal range of 1600 m to 4000 m. Habitat condition was assessed by visual estimation of canopy cover, shrub cover and herb cover in 56 and 28 nested plots of 10 m x10 m size in winter and spring
respectively. Hill Partridge, Satyr Tragopan, Koklass Pheasant, Blood Pheasant Ithaginis cruentus and Himalayan Monal Lophophorus impeyjanus were recorded both in winter and spring, whereas Snow Partridge Lerwa lerwa was recorded only in spring. Kalij Pheasant Lophura leucomelanos and Rufous- throated Partridge Arborophila rufogularis were seen in winter only. Himalayan Monal was the most frequently encountered galliform species during trail walks (6.7 bird/km) followed by Hill Partridge (0.8), Blood Pheasant (0.8), Satyr Tragopan (0.4) and Kalij Pheasant (0.4). Rufous-throated Partridge, Snow Partridge
and Koklass Pheasant were sighted only once. The detection rate per listening station was 3.6 males for Satyr Tragopan followed by Hill Partridge (3.0) and Koklass Pheasant (1.4). The number of galliform species heard differed significantly between listening
stations. A Habitat Suitability Index Model suggested that higher percentage of habitat was available for Himalayan Monal (5.6 to 15.1 percentage of the area of study) followed by Satyr Tragopan (2.8 to 7.6%), Hill Partridge (2.8 to 9.3%) and Koklass Pheasant (2.7 to 6.4%). It would be worth exploring the predicted habitats to understand the Galliformes’ population and conservation status so that a comprehensive conservation action plan could be developed.
Tree cavities are important structural elements of forest ecosystem that host numerous birds, mam... more Tree cavities are important structural elements of forest ecosystem that host numerous birds, mammals and other cavity-dependent organisms. Pattern of cavity distribution in temperate and boreal forests are relatively well studied, yet little is known about cavities in tropical and subtropical forests. We compared cavity availability in relation to tree condition (living tree and snag), tree species and DBH class between two different sites in a subtropical deciduous sal forest in Nepal: the Chitwan National Park Forest (the park site) and the Khorsor Buffer Zone Forest (the buffer site). Surveys for tree cavities were conducted in 2013 on 50 circular sample plots of size 0.1 ha. We recorded 40 cavity trees in the park site and 31 cavity trees in the buffer site. Density of cavities was on average 22.4 ha-1 in the park site and 19.2 ha-1 in the buffer site. Cavities occurred mostly in living trees (85.9% cavity trees) and were formed mostly by damage and decay (natural cavities: 74%) or by woodpecker activity (excavated cavities: 26%). Most were observed on three tree species: Shorea robusta, Dillenia pentagyna and Syzygium operculatum, with a mean diameter of 43 cm (range: 12-111 cm). S. operculatum, Myrsine semiserrata and Semecarpus anacardium were overrepresented among tree species with cavities. In snags, 25.0% of all cavities were found in the park site and 8.3% in the buffer site, while snags represented 4.2% and 2.2% of all trees in the two sites, respectively. Statistical anaysis indicated that tree species, tree condition and particularly diameter (DBH) were important variables for the prediction of cavity presence. We recommend cavity-bearing tree species to be better protected by forest management in order to help maintain the community of cavity dwellers.
iForest - Biogeosciences and Forestry, 2016
Scientific Reports
Forest cover is the primary determinant of elephant distribution, thus, understanding forest loss... more Forest cover is the primary determinant of elephant distribution, thus, understanding forest loss and fragmentation is crucial for elephant conservation. We assessed deforestation and patterns of forest fragmentation between 1930 and 2020 in Chure Terai Madhesh Lanscape (CTML) which covers the entire elephant range in Nepal. Forest cover maps and fragmentation matrices were generated using multi-source data (Topographic maps and Landsat satellite images of 1930, 1975, 2000, and 2020) and spatiotemporal change was quantified. At present, 19,069 km2 forest cover in CTML is available as the elephant habitat in Nepal. Overall, 21.5% of elephant habitat was lost between 1930 and 2020, with a larger (12.3%) forest cover loss between 1930 and 1975. Area of the large forests (Core 3) has decreased by 43.08% whereas smaller patches (Core 2, Core 1, edge and patch forests) has increased multifold between 1930 and 2020. The continued habitat loss and fragmentation probably fragmented elephant ...
Oryx
Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigri... more Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigris is essential for effective conservation as well as to evaluate the success of conservation programmes. We monitored tigers in Parsa Widlife Reserve, Nepal, using camera traps, in 2013, 2014 and 2016. Once believed to be a sink for tigers from adjacent Chitwan National Park, Parsa now provides a new hope for tigers. Spatially explicit capture–recapture analysis over 3 survey years revealed an increase in tiger density from 0.78 to 1.38 individuals per 100 km2 from 2013 to 2016. The tiger abundance was estimated to be seven (6–13), 11 (10–16) and 17 (17–20) in 2013, 2014 and 2016, respectively. Resettlement of communities from the core area, reduced anthropogenic pressure, and improved security have made Parsa Wildlife Reserve a suitable habitat for tigers. Tiger abundance increased considerably within a 5 km radius of the evacuated village sites, from two in 2013 to eight in 2014 and 10...
Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigri... more Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigris is essential for effective conservation as well as to evaluate the success of conservation programmes. We monitored tigers in Parsa Widlife Reserve, Nepal, using camera traps, in , and . Once believed to be a sink for tigers from adjacent Chitwan National Park, Parsa now provides a new hope for tigers. Spatially explicit capture-recapture analysis over survey years revealed an increase in tiger density from . to . individuals per km from to . The tiger abundance was estimated to be seven (-), (-) and (-) in , and , respectively. Resettlement of communities from the core area, reduced anthropogenic pressure, and improved security have made Parsa Wildlife Reserve a suitable habitat for tigers. Tiger abundance increased considerably within a km radius of the evacuated village sites, from two in to eight in and in . Population turnover has remained moderate (, % per year), with persistence of individuals in multiple years. Dispersing tigers from Chitwan's source population accounted for a large portion (c. %) of the tigers detected in Parsa. Conservation efforts along with annual monitoring should be continued in Parsa to sustain the increase and monitor the persistence of tigers. The Chitwan-Parsa complex should be managed as a single ecological unit for conserving the Endangered tiger and other wide-ranging species.
Journal of Threatened Taxa, 2019
An increasing intensity of camera traps recorded the presence of poorly known and globally... more An increasing intensity of camera traps recorded the presence of poorly known and globally Endangered Asiatic Wild Dogs Cuon alpinus from different locations in recent years in Nepal. After 18 years since the previous report, we recorded 29 photos and a video of Dholes in four independent detections with an effort of 4,035 trap-nights during camera trap surveys targeted at tigers in the winter of 2016/2017. Solitary dholes were camera-trapped from four locations within 27.45km2 area in Bardia National Park. The evidence of a dead Dhole probably killed in retaliation shows the threat to the species. Dholes co-exist in Bardia with sympatric carnivores like Tiger Panthera tigris, Leopard Panthera pardus, and Jackal Canis aureus.
Human Ecology, 2019
Buffer zones around parks/reserves are designed to maintain ecological integrity and to ensure co... more Buffer zones around parks/reserves are designed to maintain ecological integrity and to ensure community participation in biodiversity conservation. We studied the fund utilization pattern of buffer zone programs, mitigation measures practiced, and attitudes of residents in buffer zone programs of Chitwan National Park, Nepal. The buffer zone committees spent only a small portion (13.7%) of their budget in direct interventions to reduce wildlife impacts. Human-wildlife conflicts were inversely related to investment in direct interventions for conflict prevention and mitigation. Peoples’ attitudes towards wildlife conservation were largely positive. Most of the people were aware of buffer zone programs but were not satisfied with current practices. We recommend that buffer zone funds be concentrated into direct interventions (prevention and mitigation) to reduce wildlife conflicts. Our findings will be helpful in prioritizing distribution of funds in buffer zones of parks and reserves.
Mikania micarantha (Mikania) is one of the world’s 100 worst weeds and the primary invasive speci... more Mikania micarantha (Mikania) is one of the world’s 100 worst weeds and the primary invasive species in Chitwan National Park (CNP), Nepal. Following a Mikania survey in 2008, an additional survey was carried out in 2011 as part of greater one-horned rhinoceros (rhino) censuses to measure the extent of change of Mikania invasion in major rhino habitats in CNP. 2008 survey protocols were adopted: a plot including a half-circle of 50 m radius in front of a researcher was surveyed from elephant back for the ocular estimation of Mikania cover. Mikania coverage was quantified in the scales of 0, 1 and 2 where 0 - Mikania absent, 1 - Mikania present but less than 50 % coverage and 2 - Mikania covering more than 50% of the plot area. Mikania was found present (1 and 2 combined) in 43.3% (n=3073) of the plots in 2011 and this was approximately the same as of 2008. In 2011, as in 2008, the preferred rhino habitats - wetland, tall grassland, riverine forest - were found to have higher level of...
Yellow-throated Marten Martes flavigula has a wide geographic distribution, but little is known a... more Yellow-throated Marten Martes flavigula has a wide geographic distribution, but little is known about its ecology and behaviour. A camera-trap survey in and around Chitwan National Park, Nepal, photographed a solitary Marten carrying a Small Indian Civet Viverricula indica. The animal was in a grassland patch amid Sal Shorea robusta forest. It is unclear whether the Marten killed the Civet. Recent camera-trap surveys suggest that Yellow-throated Marten is widespread in Chitwan NP with records from altitudes of 190–675 m; many records are from Sal forest.
Wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses often result in reduced support of local communiti... more Wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses often result in reduced support of local communities for wildlife conservation. Information on spatial and temporal patterns of such losses in the highly affected areas contribute in designing and implementing effective mitiga-tion measures. We analyzed the loss of humans, livestock and property caused by wildlife during 1998 to 2016, using victim family's reports to Chitwan National Park authorities and Buffer Zone User Committees. A total of 4,014 incidents were recorded including attacks on humans, livestock depredation, property damage and crop raiding caused by 12 wildlife species. In total >400,000 US dollar was paid to the victim families as a relief over the whole period. Most of the attacks on humans were caused by rhino, sloth bear, tiger, elephant, wild boar and leopard. A significantly higher number of conflict incidents caused by rhino and elephant were observed during full moon periods. An increase in the wildlife population did not coincide with an equal rise in conflict incidents reported. Underprivileged ethnic communities were attacked by wildlife more frequently than expected. Number of attacks on humans by carnivores and herbivores did not differ significantly. An insignificant decreasing trend of wildlife attacks on humans and livestock was observed with significant variation over the years. Tiger and leopard caused >90% of livestock depredation. Tigers killed both large (cattle and buffalo) and medium sized (goat, sheep, pig) livestock but leopard mostly killed medium sized livestock. Most (87%) of the livestock killing during 2012–2016 occurred within the stall but close (<500m) to the forest edge. Both the percentage of households with livestock and average holding has decreased over the years in buffer zone. Decreased forest dependency as well as conflict mitigation measures (electric and mesh wire fences) have contributed to keep the conflict incidents in control. Strengthening mitigation measures like construction of electric or mesh wire fences and predator-proof livestock corrals along with educating local communities about wildlife behavior and timely management of problem animals (man-eater tiger, rage elephant etc.) will contribute to reduce the conflict.
Wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses often result in reduced support of local communiti... more Wildlife attacks on humans and economic losses often result in reduced support of local communities for wildlife conservation. Information on spatial and temporal patterns of such losses in the highly affected areas contribute in designing and implementing effective mitiga-tion measures. We analyzed the loss of humans, livestock and property caused by wildlife during 1998 to 2016, using victim family's reports to Chitwan National Park authorities and Buffer Zone User Committees. A total of 4,014 incidents were recorded including attacks on humans, livestock depredation, property damage and crop raiding caused by 12 wildlife species. In total >400,000 US dollar was paid to the victim families as a relief over the whole period. Most of the attacks on humans were caused by rhino, sloth bear, tiger, elephant, wild boar and leopard. A significantly higher number of conflict incidents caused by rhino and elephant were observed during full moon periods. An increase in the wildlife population did not coincide with an equal rise in conflict incidents reported. Underprivileged ethnic communities were attacked by wildlife more frequently than expected. Number of attacks on humans by carnivores and herbivores did not differ significantly. An insignificant decreasing trend of wildlife attacks on humans and livestock was observed with significant variation over the years. Tiger and leopard caused >90% of livestock depredation. Tigers killed both large (cattle and buffalo) and medium sized (goat, sheep, pig) livestock but leopard mostly killed medium sized livestock. Most (87%) of the livestock killing during 2012–2016 occurred within the stall but close (<500m) to the forest edge. Both the percentage of households with livestock and average holding has decreased over the years in buffer zone. Decreased forest dependency as well as conflict mitigation measures (electric and mesh wire fences) have contributed to keep the conflict incidents in control. Strengthening mitigation measures like construction of electric or mesh wire fences and predator-proof livestock corrals along with educating local communities about wildlife behavior and timely management of problem animals (man-eater tiger, rage elephant etc.) will contribute to reduce the conflict.
The main objectives of the Nepal National Mammal Red Data Book (RDB) were to provide comprehensiv... more The main objectives of the Nepal National Mammal Red Data Book (RDB) were to provide comprehensive and up-to-date accounts of 212 mammal species recorded in Nepal, assess their status applying the IUCN Guidelines at Regional Levels, identify threats and recommend the most practical measures for their conservation. It is hoped that the Mammal RDB will help Nepal achieve the Convention on Biological Diversity target of preventing the extinction of known threatened species and improving their conservation status. Of the 212 mammal species assessed, 49 species (23%) were listed as nationally threatened. These comprise nine (18%) Critically Endangered species, 26 (53%) Endangered species and 14 (29%) Vulnerable species. One species was considered regionally Extinct. A total of seven species (3%) were considered Near Threatened and 83 species (39%) were Data Deficient. Over sixty percent of Nepal’s ungulates are threatened and almost half of Nepal’s carnivores face extinction (45% threatened). Bats and small mammals are the least known groups with 60 species being Data Deficient. Habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation are the most significant threats. Other significant threats include illegal hunting, small and fragmented populations, reduction of prey base, human wildlife conflict and persecution, climate change, invasive species, disease and inadequate knowledge and research. Adequate measures to address these threats are described. It was also concluded that re-assessments of the status of certain mammal groups be carried out every five years and the setting up of a national online species database and mapping system would also greatly help in land-use planning and policies.
International Bear News , 2017
In Nepal, the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) occurs across the Middle Hills but not in the... more In Nepal, the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) occurs across the Middle Hills but not in the lowland Terai of Nepal, which is occupied by the sloth bear ( Melursus ursinus ). A single record exists, from a camera trapping survey in 1999 - 2000, of a Himalayan black bear in the Babai Valley (along the Babai River) of Bardia National Park (Jnawali et al. 2011). During 2016 camera trap survey in Baria, we recorded 3 photos of a solitary Himalayan black bear from a single location along the riverbed in Babai Valley on March 5, 2016. The bear capture location was in the eastern part of BNP, 27 km east of the camera trap photo of a black bear in 2000, and approx. 3 km from the border of Banke NP. Scat and tracks of a bear were also recorded at multiple locations beyond the camera trap location. Sloth bears have been recorded in Bardia regularly, including the Babai valley. Although the evidence for presence of black bears in this valley is sporadic, these records suggest a marginal overlap with sloth bears in Nepal. A targeted study to better understand this dynamic would be very useful.
Systematic Camera trapping on the Barandabhar Corridor Forest recorded the presence of the endang... more Systematic Camera trapping on the Barandabhar Corridor Forest recorded the presence of the endangered Wild Dog/Dhole in the area. A total of 1320 camera trap night efforts were conducted in the area in two blocks from 15th Dec 2015 to 20th Jan 2016. A single picture of dhole was captured and was sympatric with other large carnivores like tiger Panthera tigris tigris, leopard P. pardus, and golden jackal Canis aureus. This first record of Dhole outside the National Park opened a new gate for officials, wildlife conservationist, scientific communities, managers to think about its conservation. It also adds the proof of the healthy functionality of this corridor.
Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigri... more Information on density and abundance of globally threatened species such as tigers Panthera tigris is essential for effective conservation as well as to evaluate the success of conservation programmes. We monitored tigers in Parsa Widlife Reserve, Nepal, using camera traps, in 2013, 2014 and 2016. Once believed to be a sink for tigers from adjacent Chitwan National Park, Parsa now provides a new hope for tigers. Spatially explicit capture–recapture analysis over 3 survey years revealed an increase in tiger density from 0.78 to 1.38 individuals per 100 km2 from 2013 to 2016. The tiger abundance was estimated to be seven (6–13), 11 (10–16) and 17 (17–20) in 2013, 2014 and 2016, respectively. Resettlement of communities from the core area, reduced anthropogenic pressure, and improved security have made Parsa Wildlife Reserve a suitable habitat for tigers. Tiger abundance increased considerably within a 5 km radius of the evacuated village sites, from two in 2013 to eight in 2014 and 10 in 2016. Population turnover has remained moderate (< 30% per year), with persistence of individuals in multiple years. Dispersing tigers from Chitwan's source population accounted for a large portion (c. 40%) of the tigers detected in Parsa. Conservation efforts along with annual monitoring should be continued in Parsa to sustain the increase and monitor the persistence of tigers. The Chitwan–Parsa complex should be managed as a single ecological unit for conserving the Endangered tiger and other wide-ranging species.
We analyzed characteristics of the problem-causing tigers in Chitwan National Park (Nepal) to det... more We analyzed characteristics of the problem-causing tigers in Chitwan National Park (Nepal) to determine if specific groups or individuals in the source population have higher probability to get involved in conflicts with humans. From 2007 to 2016 we identified a total of 22 such tigers including 13 that killed humans, six serial livestock killers and three tigers that threatened human safety (with no reported human and livestock casualty). Thirteen of these tigers were controlled or killed and four were relocated. We compared a subset of 15 'problem tigers' involved in conflict between 2009 and 2013 with the Chit-wan's tiger population obtained from three different sessions of camera trapping (2009, 2010 and 2013). We found that <5% of this source population (tigers recorded in camera trap) were involved in conflict. We conclude that transient tigers without a territory or physically impaired animals are more likely to be involved in conflict and recommend an early warning system be adopted to anticipate conflicts before they occur. This system should include regular monitoring and timely identification of problem tigers followed by decisive management action to either remove the tiger or encourage local people to modify their behavior to reduce the risk of conflict.
As part of a landscape-scale programme for conserving tigers Panthera tigris the Khata corridor w... more As part of a landscape-scale programme for conserving tigers Panthera tigris the Khata corridor was established between Bardia National Park in Nepal and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary in India in early 2000. We examined its functionality by comparing the status of tigers and prey in the corridor and in the adjacent National Park, using camera trapping, transect sampling and diet analysis of scats. Tiger movement was inferred from the photographs, and tiger–human conflict was assessed by means of questionnaires and interviews. The corridor harboured transient individuals as well as resident, breeding tigers. Tigers with core areas in the corridor were also recorded in the two protected areas, and vice versa. Wild prey was 3–4 times more abundant in the area of the National Park bordering the corridor than in the corridor itself, and domestic livestock constituted 12–15% of the tigers’ food in the corridor. Livestock losses and human fatalities or injuries were relatively low compared to within the buffer zones of the National Parks. Despite such problems and restrictions on grazing and extraction of natural resources, local residents were generally positive towards tigers and the corridor. The successful establishment of the corridor and the positive attitudes of local people were attributable to community development programmes initiated to compensate for the imposed restrictions, financed by the government and national and international organizations. By linking Bardia National Park and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary via the Khata corridor, a protected tiger landscape of c. 3,000 km2 was established in west-central Nepal and northern India.
A study was carried out in the upper Seti Khola forests of Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal i... more A study was carried out in the upper Seti Khola forests of Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal in winter and spring of 2008 to estimate the abundance of Galliformes and map their habitat suitability at a landscape level. Dawn call counts for Hill Partridge Arborophila torqueola, Satyr Tragopan Tragopan satyra and Koklass Pheasant Pucrasia macrolopha, and trail walks for other galliform species were carried out in the altitudinal range of 1600 m to 4000 m. Habitat condition was assessed by visual estimation of canopy cover, shrub cover and herb cover in 56 and 28 nested plots of 10 m x10 m size in winter and spring
respectively. Hill Partridge, Satyr Tragopan, Koklass Pheasant, Blood Pheasant Ithaginis cruentus and Himalayan Monal Lophophorus impeyjanus were recorded both in winter and spring, whereas Snow Partridge Lerwa lerwa was recorded only in spring. Kalij Pheasant Lophura leucomelanos and Rufous- throated Partridge Arborophila rufogularis were seen in winter only. Himalayan Monal was the most frequently encountered galliform species during trail walks (6.7 bird/km) followed by Hill Partridge (0.8), Blood Pheasant (0.8), Satyr Tragopan (0.4) and Kalij Pheasant (0.4). Rufous-throated Partridge, Snow Partridge
and Koklass Pheasant were sighted only once. The detection rate per listening station was 3.6 males for Satyr Tragopan followed by Hill Partridge (3.0) and Koklass Pheasant (1.4). The number of galliform species heard differed significantly between listening
stations. A Habitat Suitability Index Model suggested that higher percentage of habitat was available for Himalayan Monal (5.6 to 15.1 percentage of the area of study) followed by Satyr Tragopan (2.8 to 7.6%), Hill Partridge (2.8 to 9.3%) and Koklass Pheasant (2.7 to 6.4%). It would be worth exploring the predicted habitats to understand the Galliformes’ population and conservation status so that a comprehensive conservation action plan could be developed.
Tree cavities are important structural elements of forest ecosystem that host numerous birds, mam... more Tree cavities are important structural elements of forest ecosystem that host numerous birds, mammals and other cavity-dependent organisms. Pattern of cavity distribution in temperate and boreal forests are relatively well studied, yet little is known about cavities in tropical and subtropical forests. We compared cavity availability in relation to tree condition (living tree and snag), tree species and DBH class between two different sites in a subtropical deciduous sal forest in Nepal: the Chitwan National Park Forest (the park site) and the Khorsor Buffer Zone Forest (the buffer site). Surveys for tree cavities were conducted in 2013 on 50 circular sample plots of size 0.1 ha. We recorded 40 cavity trees in the park site and 31 cavity trees in the buffer site. Density of cavities was on average 22.4 ha-1 in the park site and 19.2 ha-1 in the buffer site. Cavities occurred mostly in living trees (85.9% cavity trees) and were formed mostly by damage and decay (natural cavities: 74%) or by woodpecker activity (excavated cavities: 26%). Most were observed on three tree species: Shorea robusta, Dillenia pentagyna and Syzygium operculatum, with a mean diameter of 43 cm (range: 12-111 cm). S. operculatum, Myrsine semiserrata and Semecarpus anacardium were overrepresented among tree species with cavities. In snags, 25.0% of all cavities were found in the park site and 8.3% in the buffer site, while snags represented 4.2% and 2.2% of all trees in the two sites, respectively. Statistical anaysis indicated that tree species, tree condition and particularly diameter (DBH) were important variables for the prediction of cavity presence. We recommend cavity-bearing tree species to be better protected by forest management in order to help maintain the community of cavity dwellers.
Bears of the World: Ecology, Conservation and Management, 2020
The media and scientific literature are increasingly reporting an escalation of large carnivore a... more The media and scientific literature are increasingly reporting an escalation of large carnivore attacks on humans, mainly in the so-called developed countries, such as Europe and North America. Although large carnivore populations have generally increased in developed countries, increased numbers are not solely responsible for the observed rise in the number of attacks. Of the eight bear species inhabiting the world, two (i.e. the Andean bear and the giant panda) have never been reported to attack humans, whereas the other six species have: sun bears Helarctos malayanus, sloth bears Melursus ursinus, Asiatic black bears Ursus thibetanus, American black bears Ursus americanus, brown bears Ursus arctos, and polar bears Ursus maritimus. This chapter provides insights into the causes, and as a result the prevention, of bear attacks on people. Prevention and information that can encourage appropriate human behavior when sharing the landscape with bears are of paramount importance to reduce both potentially fatal human–bear encounters and their consequences to bear conservation.