Diversity and Distribution of Large Herbivore Mammals in Kawal Tiger Reserve, Telangana State

Abstract

The usage of habitat, rate of growth, dispersion, and the reaction of a population to management activities are all factors in estimating the richness of wild animals. However, because there are so many real-world field issues, determining the densities of herbivore animals in the forest is challenging. The current study is conducted in Kawal Tiger Reserve, northeast of Telangana, to estimate the number of big herbivore mammals and learn more about how these animals use various habitats. The direct sighting and line transect methods were applied to collect systematic data. 7 species of large herbivore viz. Bluebull, Four-horned Antelope, Indian Gaur, Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer, Indian Gazelle, Wild boar were observed during the surveys. Based on the information, the habitat preferences of different large herbivore species in the study area is assessed. Results shows the richness of the species is abundant in the study area due to availability of sufficient food resources, sufficient water resources. No adverse increase or decrease in the quantity of sightings annually. Even if there have been a few local hunting occurrences, they are not noteworthy nor do they appear to have any impact on the extinction of species. It may also lamentably state that our carnivore density is really low.