Population dynamics of a few mega mammals in Bhadra wildlife sanctuary, Chikamagalur district, Karnataka state

Abstract

Bhadra wildlife sanctuary is a part of western ghats located in Chikamagalur district of Karnataka, is covering an area of 492.46 km2. The sanctuary is unique with rich biodiversity. Except for periodical departmental census from state government on some animals and a few studies, not much scientific information was available. Hence the present study was undertaken to analyse the population dynamics of a few mega mammals. For this work Elephant (Elephas maximus), Gaur (Bos gaurus), Spotted deer (Axis axis) and Sambar (Cervus unicolor) are considered. Objectives of the present study was to obtain the information on the distribution, population size and structure of a few mega mammals in order to understand the dynamics of population and predator-prey relationship. Following methods were used to collect the data. 1. Physical counting. 2. Through questionnaire distributed to the field staff and 3. Through line transect and belt transect methods. Results: The census data reveals a steady increase in the population of the mega mammals considered in the study. There is an unequal distribution of the population in different ranges of the sanctuary. The sex ratio is commonly in favour of females. The effective population size is satisfactory in most of the species studied. Conclusion: 1. The study reveals that Bhadra sanctuary has rich bio-diversity. 2. The herbivore and carnivore populations show progressive increase. 3. The sanctuary has higher carrying capacity than the present number. 4. There is a balanced Predator-Prey relationship.