Publications
Landscape Connectivity Modelling for the African Savannah Elephant With Spatial Absorbing Markov Chain and Predicting the Regenerative Power of the Range in a Mesic Protected Area
A high regenerative potential for the landscape of Mana Pools National Park (MPNP) is projected by 2083, offering hope for the long-term sustainability of African savannah elephant populations. This finding stems from a study that combined Spatial Absorbing Markov Chain (SAMC) modelling with cellular automata artificial neural networks (CA-ANN). The research identified critical micro-corridors and sub-landscape linkages essential for maintaining ecological connectivity, which are vital for the elephants' migratory and foraging behaviors. By analyzing multi-temporal satellite data, GPS collar data, road transects, and plot-based surveys from 2003 to 2023, the study revealed how land cover, slope, and terrain shape movement patterns in this mesic protected area. The projections underscore the resilience of semi-arid savannah landscapes and advocate for integrated conservation strategies to preserve functional connectivity, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.
Behaviour and habitat preferences of translocated rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) at Manas National Park, Assam, India
A study on translocated greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) at Manas National Park, Assam, India, found that these animals successfully adapted to their new environment without significant behavioral differences from wild populations. Between 2008 and 2021, 22 rhinos were reintroduced as part of the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 program, with post-release monitoring revealing stable activity patterns, home ranges, and habitat preferences. The park's slightly higher elevation reduced flood risks compared to source sites like Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. By 2022, the population had grown to 50 individuals, including 38 calves born post-reintroduction, demonstrating the effectiveness of well-managed translocation schemes in rhino conservation.
Towards a new rhino conservation landscape in Assam for the increasing population of the greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis)
A recent census in Assam reveals a significant increase in the population of greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis), with notable growth also observed in their habitat within protected areas like Kaziranga, Manas, and Orang National Parks. This upward trend is attributed to enhanced anti-poaching measures and improved vigilance, which have drastically reduced poaching incidents. Additionally, the study highlights the economic benefits for local communities living near these parks, as tourism-related activities such as motels, safari vehicles, and souvenir shops have flourished, providing employment opportunities. The increase in tourism has also boosted the livelihoods of residents in cities like Guwahati, Jorhat, and Tezpur. While the study acknowledges the positive developments, it cautions about the need for controlled tourism, particularly in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary during peak seasons.
A systematic expert‐based assessment of progress and priorities for conservation of the Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis
A systematic expert-based assessment reveals that while conservation efforts for the Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) have successfully reduced hunting threats, significant challenges remain in addressing predation by dogs and power line impacts. The study identifies priority threats across key sites, including Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaziranga National Park, and Stoung-Chikreang Bengal Florican Conservation Area (BFCA), where conservation achievements are notable but require scaling up. It proposes a framework for collaboration to tackle these threats, emphasizing the critical role of D'Ering Wildlife Sanctuary in India. By replicating good practices from high-performing sites, the study suggests that the extinction risk of the Bengal Florican can be mitigated if priority actions are implemented effectively.
A study on the behavior and colonization of translocated Greater One-horned Rhinos Rhinoceros unicornis (Mammalia: Perissodactyla: Rhinocerotidae) during 90 days from their release at Manas National Park, Assam India
A remarkable 89% of Greater One-horned Rhinos translocated from Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary to Manas National Park exhibited consistent dispersal patterns, moving in the same direction post-release. This study, part of India's Rhino Vision 2020 initiative, used radio tracking and direct observation over 90 days to document their behavioral adaptation and colonization behavior. Notably, rhinos from Pobitora showed greater straying compared to those from Kaziranga, suggesting site-specific influences on dispersal. The findings offer valuable insights for future rhino translocation strategies, aiming to enhance conservation efforts in Manas Wildlife Sanctuary.
Status and Conservation of Golden Langur in Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, India
A comprehensive survey of the golden langur (Trachypithecus geei), an endangered primate endemic to India and Bhutan, revealed 474 individuals across 64 troops in Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam. This represents the first systematic count in this critical protected habitat, providing vital baseline data on population structure, group dynamics, and threats. The study, conducted between December 2006 and January 2007 using line transects and total counts, found a mean group size of 7.4 individuals, with an adult sex ratio of 1:1.53 and a high infant-to-adult female ratio of 1:0.617. The population age structure was balanced, comprising 49.8% adults, 33.5% juveniles, and 16.7% infants. Notably, domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) and illegal felling emerged as significant threats to the langur's survival in this protected area. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies to safeguard the golden langur and its habitat within Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary.
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