Biodiversity Mapping Survey/Study in Kaziranga National Park (KNP)

Mammals Chapter

Final Report

Prepared by

Mr. Sameer B. Bajaru Mammologist

Introduction

The north east India includes two biodiversity hotspots of the World, Himalayan and Indo- Burma (Mayer et al. 2000; Mittermeier et al. 2004). It is extremely rich in diversity of the mammals; about 269 species are recorded from this region (Choudhury, 2013). Geographic position of the area, situated in overlapping zones of Palaearctic and Oriental region would be the probable reason for its exceptional diversity of the mammals. This region harbours heterogeneous assemblages of mammals form different subregions such as Indian, Himalayan and Indo-chinese. Its mammalian fauna have close affinity with Indo-Chinese followed by Indian and Himalayan subregions (Choudhury, 2013). NE India has played crucial role in shaping mammalian diversity of Indian subregion. Prehistorically it act as corridor for immigration of Indo-Malayan fauna into Indian subregion and also as reserve for tropical species (tropical species gene reservoir) during glacial period (Tamma & Ramakrishnan, 2015).

NE India can be physiographically broadly divided into Assam plains and NE hills. Assam plains/Brahmaputra Valley are floodplains, one of the most dynamic ecosystems formed by massive flooding form the Brahmaputra River. This river forms massive and complicated network of some of the Words largest sandy and grassy islands, locally known as Chars/Chaporis. Brahmaputra strongly influenced the vegetation in the Assam plains, mainly dominated by alluvial grasslands, alluvial lowland semi-evergreen forest and mixed deciduous forest (Sharma et al. 2012). The valley includes human settlements, agriculture fields and one of the World's largest tract of the tea gardens. The Brahmaputra valley has been exploited for more than two centaury, mainly for the expansion of agriculture and tea plantation, which was transformed contiguous stretch of forest into isolated fragments those cover < 25% of the valley (Forest Survey of India, 2009).

Despite of continuous exploitation, still this regions harbours exceptionally rich biodiversity. For example, seven species of wild cats in single stretch of forests of Jeypore-Dehing (Hance, 2010), seven species of primates (Sharma et al. 2012) in remnant patches of upper Brahmaputra Valley and largest remained populations of mega herbivores such as Great One- horned Rhinoceros, Elephants and Water Buffalos surviving in Kaziranga and Manas National Park. However, most of the protected areas in Brahmaputra valley are small and isolated and they are under tremendous anthropogenic pressure due to reasons mentioned above and also upcoming developmental projects such as hydroelectric, mining, urbanisation, defence and other infrastructural projects. Therefore, there is immediate need to develop protocol for documentation and analysis of the diversity of the region for its conservation and long term assessments.

Kaziranga National Park (KNP) is one of the best managed wildlife parks in the World. Though well known for Great One-horned Rhinoceros, Asian Elephants, Water Buffalos, Swamp deer and Tigers, it harbours rich biodiversity - 490 species of birds, 43 species of reptiles and 52 species of mammals (Choudhury, 2013). Though intensive work has been carried on individual species (Patkar, 1980; Kushwaha, 2000; Muley, 2001; Di Fonzo, 2007; 2

Ahmed et al. 2010) there is lack of detailed account of diversity of mammals, especially distribution and richness. For example, status of 21 species of mammals found in surrounding areas of KNP(Choudhury, 2013) is unclear inside the park. Therefore, considering these gaps and need of long term monitoring programme we undertook this study for examining richness, distribution and relative abundance of the mammals in KNP.

Objectives

1. Establish baseline data and survey protocols for future biodiversity monitoring. 2. Establish sound, repeatable field methods appropriate for local conditions. 3. Establish rigorous methods for collection and management of data and specimens, including the production of high quality photographic documentation with use of camera traps and cameras. 4. Identify of mammalian assemblages. 5. Bring out management planning by defining habitat preferences and distribution of a range of mammalian assemblages and threats to them. 6. Provide natural history information on a range of mammal species. 7. Documentation of management practices and identification of management zones. 8. Share detailed data and information of KNP and develop stronger coordination among the Forest Department and FREMAA (Flood and River Erosion Management Agency of Assam).

Methods

The study area was broadly divided into 157 (3 sq. km.) primary grids, of which 12 grids (Forest - 4; grassland - 3; wetland - 3, mixed vegetation - 2) were randomly selected for examining richness, distribution and relative abundance of mammals in KNP (Fig. 1). These grids were further divided into 1 sq. km. secondary grids, while considering the limited accessibility to all the areas of primary grids and high density of the mammals. Generally high animal density areas of species minimizes size of their territory and home range and make ecological sense for selecting smaller grids in high such areas. Though most of secondary grids were selected randomly (n=53), sometimes selection was based on presence of vehicular road, ant poaching camps and risk from elephant, rhino and buffalos in a particular grid. Number of secondary grids chosen for sampling were in proportion to and heterogeneity of habitat types - mixed deciduous forest (n=6), alluvial semi-evergreen forest (n=8), wetland (n=15), wet alluvial grasslands (n=20) and mixed vegetation (n=4).

Fig.1. Map of the study area, Kaziranga National Park. The map shows secondary sampling grids and locations. Inset image shows main land cover types in the park overlaid with the sampling grids. 5

Mixed Deciduous Forest - Isolated patches (in grasslands) or linear patches (along alluvial semi- evergreen forest) of mixed deciduous are common in KNP (Fig. 2).They are characterized with Albizia procera, Lagerstroemia speciosa, Lagerstomia parviflora, Bombyx ceiba, Dillenia pentagyna, Dillenia indica and Ziziphus mauritiana (Choudhury, 2013). Large stretches of these forests are found in the northern range of KNP.

Alluvial Semi-evergreen Forest - Semi-evergreen forest patches are commonly seen along streams, wetlands and high elevated areas (Fig. 3, hereafter referred as semi-evergreen forest). Some of the species found in these forests are Artocarpus chaplasha, Terminalia myriocarpa, Tetrameles nudiflora, Dillenia scabrella and Ficus spp. Extensive canebrakes are frequently seen in these forests (Choudhury, 2013). In most of the areas these forest are intermixed or flanked with mixed deciduous forest.

Wetland - These are waterlogged habitats surrounded with wet alluvial grasslands (Fig. 4). They have great variation in size from ten thousands of hectares to ten hectares; most of them are connected and form a complicated network with rivers in KNP. After monsoon water level of wetlands get reduces and exposed areas are covered with short grass, and they become grazing ground for herbivores. Wetland is key habitat of KNP, most of wildlife, especially large herbivores strongly depends on them for their survival.

Wet alluvial grasslands - Approximately half of KNP is covered with wet alluvial grasslands (Fig. 5, hereafter referred as grassland). They are extremely dense and tall, grows up to 3-5m. Commonly observed grasses in this grassland are Saccharum ravennae, Phragmites karka, Arundo donax, Imperata cylindrica and Saccharum spp. (Choudhury, 2013).

Mixed vegetation - This is not homogenous (natural) vegetation category, we adapted it for our grid based sampling method. It generally includes sampling grid equally dominated with mixed moist deciduous forest and wet alluvial grassland. They mostly appeared like heavily wooded grasslands. They were seen at fringes of mixed moist deciduous forest tracts or as small isolated patches in grassland.

Fig.2 Mixed deciduous forest

Fig.3 Wet alluvial semi-evergreen forest

Fig.4. Wetland

Fig. 5. Wet alluvial grassland

We used following methods for sampling richness, distribution and relative abundance of mammals in KNP. All sampling was carried out between 1st November 2015 and 6th February 2016.

Vehicular transects: We conducted vehicular transects of 1km length per grid depended on the accessibility. Total 19 transects were sampled in this study. Transects were laid with minimum distance between them 500 - 1000m, while in some cases it was not possible due to limited availability of vehicular road or their situation. We maintained time of 30-45 min/km to keep sampling efforts constant. Number of individuals of mammalian species seen or heard along the transect were counted. Each transect was sampled four times during the study period. Covariates (categorical) such as canopy cover, visibility and vegetation height recorded at every 100m along with day and time of the transect sampled.

Total counts: Wetlands available in the grid were sampled, subjected to their accessibility. Ten wetlands were sampled in this study. Total number of individuals of the species observed in wetland was counted. The number of points per wetland varied according to size of the wetland (2-5 points/wetland). Each wetland was sampled four times during the study period. Covariates (categorical) such as type and height of vegetation surrounding wetland, and day and time of count were recorded.

Camera trapping: We used four Infra Red (IR) camera traps (three - Moultrie M-880 and one - Moultrie PANORAMIC 150, company) for sampling nocturnal terrestrial mammals. We did camera trapping at 42 grids in this study. Number of camera trap(s) varied 3-1/grid considering accessible locations and activity signs (scat and pugmark) of mammals, mostly carnivores. Cameras were mounted on tress approximately 15-40cm above the ground, near animal trails, water bodies and fruiting trees for four consecutive nights. We tried to maintain 500m minimum distance between two camera traps, but sometime accessibility and unavailability of suitable mounting sites for cameras violated minimum distance criterion. Covariates (categorical) such as canopy cover, animal trail, water body, terrain and mammalian sign around camera traps were recorded. Camera traps were covered with protective iron case and fasten with Master Lock - Python Trail Camera Cable (Moultrie) to avoid damage from animals and stolen by humans.

Forest guard interview: We interviewed 1-2 guard(s)/camp from a sampling grid to know about the mammals those not evidence through above mentioned methods. Experienced guards were chosen for this task. We showed them photographs and illustrations of the mammals from the field guides for identification and collected the useful ecological information (distribution, habitat and current status) about various species. Accuracy of identification was judged subjectively through asking more details about morphology and habit of the species, if it is uncommon/not likely to occur in KNP, and showing pictures of the species those unlikely to found in KNP and nearby areas.

Data Analysis

We transformed count data into incidence (detection/non-detection) data while considering the small sample size and reduce the influence of few but abundant species (Legendre & Legendre,

1998). We constructed species accumulation curve using sample based approach for sound comparison of species richness between various habitat types and estimated species richness with Chao, first-order Jackknief and bootstrapping methods (Kindt & Coe, 2005). Constrained ordination analysis technique - distance based redundancy analysis (db-RDA) was used to analysis the pattern in organisation of mammalian assemblages (community structure) in the KNP with habitat types and elevation as underlying predictors (Kindt & Coe, 2005).

Data collected from direct observational methods (vehicular transects and total counts) was used for computation of naive occupancy as index of relative abundance of mammals in KNP, though it is widely criticized for its unaccountability of imperfect detection (MacKenzie et al. 2002 & 2003). We calculated relative abundance index (RAI) for mammals photographed in camera traps using independent photographs (O'Brien et al. 2003). Numbers of images of the species taken in same camera trap during 24 hrs (day and night) were treated as non-independent. RAI was expressed as photographs per 100 trap days.

All data analysis was carried out in R using package BiodiversityR (Kindt & Coe, 2005).

Results

Species richness

In total, 30 species of mammals belongs to eight order were recorded during this study (Fig. 6, not included species occurrence data collected from forest guards). Most speciose order was Carnivora followed by Artiodactyla, Rodentia and others.

1 1 1 1 CARNIVORA ARTIODACTYLA

3 12 RODENTIA

PRIMATES 5 SORICOMORPHA PERISSODACTYLA 6 PROBOSCIDEA

SCANDENTIA

Fig. 6. Species richness of mammals of KNP based on mammalian order.

Fig.7. Sample based species accumulation curve for mammals of KNP ( yellow - grasslands (n=20), blue - wetland (n=15), red - semi-evergreen forest (n=8), black - mixed deciduous forest (n=6), green- mixed vegetation (n=4), bars indicate ± 2 SD).

Species accumulation curves shows that mixed deciduous and semi-evergreen forest have got more species than wetland and grassland. The curve has almost attained saturation state for wetlands and grasslands, however it was still growing for the mixed deciduous and semi- evergreen forest, the trend was intermediate for mixed vegetation.

Table 1. Various estimates of total species richness and their confidence interval (CI) for mammals of KNP(Jack1 - first order Jackknief, Boot-Bootstrapping).

Chao 95% CI Jack 1 95% CI boot 95% CI n 31.30 (27.75 - 34.84) 33.92 (29.19 - 38.64) 32.42 (29.10 - 35.73) 53

Table 2. Habitat wise estimates of total species richness and their confidence interval (CI) for mammals of KNP(R - number of species detected in this study).

R Jack 95% CI Boot 95% CI n Mixed deciduous 16 24.33 (15.152 - 19.64 (14.990 - 6 1 Semi-evergreen 18 27.63 (17.315 - 21.93 (17.061 - 8 forest 33.515) 24.297) Mixed vegetation 12 16.50 (9.199 - 23.801) 14.10 (10.101 - 4 forest 37.935) 26.800) Grassland 23 29.65 (22.338 - 26.32 (22.409 - 20 18.095) 36.962) 30.221) 12

Wetland 20 25.60 (21.119 - 22.57 (19.982- 25.157) 15

30.081)

The total estimate of species richness using different methods was ranged between 31-34 species (Table 1). In habitat wise estimates of total species richness, considerable discrepancy was observed between real and predicted figures using first order Jackknief method. The difference was noteworthy in mixed deciduous and semi-evergreen forests (Table 2), which was seen in species accumulation curve also through increasing curves for these habitats (Fig. 7).

Community composition

Very small amount of variance 12% (Table 3) was accounted by constrained variables (habitat and elevation). First three CAP (canonical analysis of principal coordinates) axis explained 10.6

% of variance (Table 4). Permutation test showed the significant relationship (Pseudo-F(5,47) = 1.34, P=0.03), though not very strong, between covariates and ecological distances among sites.

Table 3. Partition of squared Jaccard's distance Total 17.10 1.00 Constrained 2.13 0.12 Unconstrained 14.96 0.88 Table 4. Distribution of variance across important constrained and unconstrained components (CAP- canonical analysis of principal coordinates, MDS - multidimensional scaling)

CAP1 CAP2 CAP3 MDS1 MDS2 MDS3 Eigenvalue 0.954 0.552 0.305 2.841 1.675 1.205 Proportion explained 0.056 0.032 0.018 0.166 0.098 0.088 Cumulative proportion 0.056 0.088 0.106 0.291 0.389 0.476

Table 5. Biplot scores for constrained variable

CAP1 CAP2 CAP3 Semi-evergreen Forest 0.372 -0.259 -0.713 Mixed vegetation - 0.605 -0.278 0.219 Grassland - 0.022 -0.227 0.608 Wetland 0.072 0.935 -0.049 Elevation 0.861 -0.320 0.037

Fig.8. Db-RDA ordination graph of first two axis for mammals of KNP using scaling method 1, Jaccard's distance and type of habitat and elevation as constrained variable.

CAP1 was represented by semi-evergreen forest, mixed vegetation and elevation, and CAP2 dominated with wetland (Table 5). Ordination graph of CAP1 vs CAP2 revealed at least three distinct mammalian communities in KNP - mixed vegetation, wetland and semi-evergreen forest mammal communities, there was partial overlap between latter two communities, they overlap considerably with mixed deciduous and grassland mammal communities (Fig. 8)

Semi-evergreen forest mammalian communities were distributed in high elevated areas in KNP. They differentiated with arboreal species such as Trachypithecus pileatus, Callosciurus pygerythrus, Hoolock hoolock, Ratufa bicolor and ungulates such as Rusa unicolor and Muntiacus vaginalis. Wetland mammalian communities seems prefer in low lying areas of the park. They characterized with most of the ungulates like Rhinoceros unicornis, Rucervus duvaucelii, Bubalus arnee, Axis porcinus and Sus scrofa; carnivores - Lutrogale perspicillata and Prionailurus viverrinus; and primate - Macaca mulatta. Mixed vegetation mammalian communities were represented by Canis aureus and Felis chaus. The remaining species appears to prefer areas between these three distinct mammalian communities.

Species relative abundance

Axis porcinus was the most abundant species in KNP followed by Rhinoceros unicornis and Elephas maximus using direct observational methods (Table 6). Panthera tigris, Ratufa bicolor and Dremomys lokriah were found to be least abundant species. Vehicular transect method seems to be effective in detecting almost all species of mammals of KNP (~90%) those were easily spotted by direct observational methods, except wetland specialist species such as Lutrogale perspicillata and Rucervus duvaucelii. In habitat wise relative abundance also A. porcinus was most abundant species in all habitats (Table 7). Grasslands and wetlands were most abundant with Rhinoceros unicornis and Elephas maximus, semi-evergreen forest with Callosciurus pygerythrus and mixed deciduous forest by Rusa unicolor.

Table 6. Naive occupancy of mammals of KNP using pooled, vehicular transect and total count method (direct observational methods).

Vehicular Naive occupancy Total count transect method Species (%) method (%) (%) (n=29) (n=10) (n=19) Macaca mulatta 31.03 17.24 13.79 Hoolock hoolock 6.90 6.90 0.00 Trachypithecus pileatus 6.90 6.90 0.00 Canis aureus 6.90 10.34 0.00 Panthera tigris 3.45 3.45 0.00 Rucervus duvaucelii 17.24 0.00 17.24 Rusa unicolor 17.24 17.24 3.45 Bubalus arnee 27.59 6.90 20.69 Sus scrofa 31.03 6.90 24.14 Axis porcinus 86.21 48.28 34.48 Muntiacus vaginalis 10.34 6.90 3.45 Rhinoceros unicornis 44.83 24.14 17.24 Elephas maximus 44.83 27.59 17.24 Ratufa bicolor 3.45 3.45 0.00 Callosciurus pygerythrus 37.93 34.48 3.45

Tamiops mcclellandii 10.34 10.34 0.00 Lutrogale perspicillata 6.90 0.00 6.90 Euroscaptor micrura 6.90 6.90 0.00 Dremomys lokriah 3.45 3.45 0.00

Table 7. Habitat wise naive occupancy of the mammals of KNP using direct observational method

Semi- Mixed Grassland Wetland Evergreen deciduous Species (n=9) (n=10) forest forest (n=5) (n=5) Macaca mulatta 0.00 17.24 6.90 6.90 Hoolock hoolock 0.00 0.00 3.45 3.45 Trachypithecus pileatus 0.00 3.45 0.00 3.45 Canis aureus 3.45 0.00 0.00 3.45 Panthera tigris 0.00 0.00 3.45 0.00 Rucervus duvaucelii 3.45 13.79 0.00 0.00 Rusa unicolor 0.00 0.00 6.90 10.34 Bubalus arnee 10.34 10.34 0.00 6.90 Sus scrofa 10.34 13.79 3.45 3.45 Axis porcinus 20.69 34.48 17.24 13.79 Muntiacus vaginalis 0.00 6.90 3.45 0.00 Rhinoceros unicornis 17.24 17.24 3.45 6.90 Elephas maximus 17.24 13.79 6.90 6.90 Ratufa bicolor 0.00 0.00 0.00 3.45 Callosciurus pygerythrus 10.34 10.34 10.34 6.90 Tamiops mcclellandii 0.00 3.45 6.90 0.00 Lutrogale perspicillata 0.00 3.45 3.45 0.00 Euroscaptor micrura 0.00 0.00 3.45 0.00

Dremomys lokriah 0.00 0.00 3.45 0.00

In camera trapping also Axis porcinus and Rhinoceros unicornis were most abundant species (Table 8). Herpestes javanicus and Panthera pardus were found to be uncommon. Habitat wise relative abundance showed that Axis porcinus was most abundant species in most of the habitats (Table 9). Grassland and wetlands were dominated by Rhinoceros unicornis and Sus scrofa. Bubalus arnee, Axis porcinus and Rhinoceros unicornis were equally abundant in semi- evergreen forests after Elephas maximus. In mixed deciduous forest decreasing order of relative abundance was Sus scrofa followed by equally abundant Panthera tigris and Rhinoceros unicornis and then Rusa unicolor. Mixed vegetation dominated with Axis porcinus and Canis aureus. All small carnivores had low to moderate relative abundance.

Table 8. Relative abundance index (RAI) of mammals of KNP using camera trapping (RAI - Number of photos per 100 trap days, total trapping efforts 672 trap days).

Species RAI Macaca mulatta 2.98 Arctonyx collaris 0.89 Herpestes javanicus 0.15 Canis aureus 0.89 Felis chaus 0.89 Prionailurus bengalensis 0.45 Prionailurus viverrinus 0.89 Viverricula indica 0.89 Viverra zibetha 0.60 Paradoxurus hermaphroditus 0.30 Panthera pardus 0.15 Panthera tigris 1.93 Rusa unicolor 2.08 Bubalus arnee 3.27 Sus scrofa 6.99 Axis porcinus 9.52

Muntiacus vaginalis 1.64 Rhinoceros unicornis 8.04 Elephas maximus 3.42 Atherurus macrourus 0.30 Hystrix brachyura 1.19 Callosciurus pygerythrus 0.15

Table 9. Habitat wise RAI of the mammals of KNP using camera trapping method.

Semi- Mixed Mixed Grassland Wetland Species Evergreen deciduous vegetation (n=16) (n=12) forest forest (n=4) Macaca mulatta 0.60 1.93 (n=5)0.45 (n=5)0.00 0.00 Arctonyx collaris 0.60 0.15 0.00 0.15 0.00 Herpestes javanicus 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Canis aureus 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.74 Felis chaus 0.74 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.15 Prionailurus bengalensis 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.00 0.00 Prionailurus viverrinus 0.30 0.60 0.00 0.00 0.00 Viverricula indica 0.74 0.00 0.15 0.00 0.00 Viverra zibetha 0.15 0.45 0.00 0.00 0.00 Paradoxurus hermaphroditus 0.30 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Panthera pardus 0.00 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 Panthera tigris 0.45 0.60 0.30 0.60 0.00 Rusa unicolor 0.60 0.74 0.15 0.45 0.15 Bubalus arnee 1.34 1.04 0.60 0.15 0.15 Sus scrofa 2.38 2.53 0.45 1.04 0.60 Axis porcinus 4.02 3.57 0.60 0.30 1.04 Muntiacus vaginalis 0.60 0.60 0.15 0.30 0.00

Rhinoceros unicornis 2.98 3.57 0.60 0.60 0.30 Elephas maximus 1.49 0.45 0.89 0.30 0.30 Atherurus macrourus 0.00 0.00 0.15 0.15 0.00 Hystrix brachyura 0.30 0.45 0.15 0.00 0.30 Callosciurus pygerythrus 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Among the mammals observed in KNP during this survey some species were only detected with particular sampling method - 8 species (27% of total species detected) by direct observational methods and 12 species (40% of total species detected) by camera trapping method. However, both methods were failed in detection of some species which was revealed through data collected from interviews of the forest guards. We interviewed 20 forest guards from 18 anti-poaching camps distributed across all habitats of the park. They were identified 13 species of mammals in addition to those detected through above mentioned methods.

Discussion We have observed 30 species of mammals during this survey; however, looking at the species accumulation curve, especially for semi-evergreen and mixed moist deciduous forest, seems that some of the species were not recorded during the survey. Upper confidence limit (95%) of estimate of species richness from one the methods was 39 species appears realistic. It was further strengthened by species occurrence data we have collected from the interviews of forest guards. The data showed that we have not detected 13 species of mammals those were likely to found in KNP.

Species accumulation curve revealed that 15 sample units (1 sq. km. grids) may be sufficient to capture richness of mammals in grassland and wetland habitat; however such predictions were not possible in case of mixed deciduous, semi-evergreen and mixed vegetation due to their inadequate sample size. Assuming that comparable financial and human resources (got for current investigation) will be available for future surveys, we suggest that minimum 10 sample units per habitat would be good trade-off between available resources and quality of the findings.

Multivariate analysis indicated elevation and habitat type were appears to be important drivers responsible for structuring communities of the mammals in the KNP. Though segregations 19

between all communities were not very distinct, at least for three communities it was considerably clear. High elevated semi-evergreen forest areas had primates, squirrels and forest dwelling ungulates; wetland areas had large and medium sized herbivores; while mixed vegetation areas had Canis aureus and Felis chaus. This organisation of mammalian communities may be represents the natural succession in ecosystem of KNP. Canis aureus and Felis chaus were reported in pioneer habitats such as dry grasslands and mixed vegetation areas. It succeeded by wet grasslands and wetlands, those in turn replaced with mixed deciduous forest and semi-evergreen forest (per. comm. with experienced forest guards).

Relative abundance of mammals of KNP observed in this study is comparable with Ahmed et al. (2010). Relative abundance pattern seems to be consistent with community patterns of mammals in KNP. Axis porcinus was most abundant and generalist species recorded in almost all habitats. Bubalus bubalis, Rhinoceros unicornis, Elephas maximus and Sus scrofa formed second most abundant group of mammals in KNP. We suggest that the naive occupancy and RAI should be treated with caution; it may not be represent true relative abundance of the species because of unaccountability for imperfect detection of the species (MacKenzie et al. 2002 & 2003).

Vehicular transect and total count method found to effective in detecting diurnal, arboreal, herbivores and species living in open habitat. On, the contrary almost all carnivores and nocturnal ground dwelling mammals were only detected through camera trapping. Therefore combination of both the methods could be properly account the richness and relative abundance of mammals of KNP. In addition to this some species were not detected by both the methods such as myomorph rodents, slow loris and flying squirrel, they need specialised methods such as live trapping for rodents and nocturnal surveys for latter species.

Richness and relative abundance monitoring protocol for mammal of KNP 1. Major land cover types or habitats will be mapped using recently available satellite imageries. 2. Stratified random sampling, with elevation and land cover as strata, will be carried out using grid based approach. Size of the grid should be based on home range(s)/ territory(s) of medium sized mammals. 3. Minimum 10 grid (sampling units) should be selected per land cover/habitat category for sampling. 4. Each grid will be sampled with multiple methods such as vehicular transect, total count, nocturnal surveys, camera trapping and live trapping. 5. December - April will be ideal season for mammal surveys. 6. Detection/non-detection data can be used as index of relative abundance or if relative abundance (count) data will be collected it provides more accurate and precise information for diversity and relative abundance. However, collecting relative abundance data of multiple species for such short term project is challenging financially and feasibly. 7. Relative abundance index (RAI) (O'brien), naive occupancy, encounter rates and capture success can be used as indices for occupancy and relative abundance of the mammals. 8. Detection/non-detection data taken repetitively (>2) for each sampling site, which account for detection probability (MacKenzie et al. 2002), would be provide accurate and precise estimates for occupancy, richness and even relative abundance of the species.

Recommendations

1. Detailed examination of ecosystem dynamics of KNP is crucial for carrying out management practices for conservation of biodiversity of the park . 2. We would like to recommend that the forest department should clearly define and critically evaluate their management practices because most of the species shown particular habitat preference in this investigation and haphazard/biased practices may came at cost of great loss to non-target species. 3. We found that wetland and grassland have highest relative abundance of mega-herbivores and these were prime areas of management for the Forest Department while considering the tourism. However, we suggest the department also gave equal attention to management of woodland, because along with wetland they greatly add the diversity of mammals to the area. 4. We strongly recommend capacity building of the forest staff for monitoring mammals of KNP. This can be done by training the staff for identification of mammals, monitoring camera traps and systematically recording sightings, and providing field guides, GPS units, cameras to them.

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Sharma, N., Madhusudan, M. D., Sarkar, P., Bawri, M. and Sinha, A. (2012). Trends in extinction and persistence of diurnal primates in the fragmented lowland rainforests of the Upper Brahmaputra Valley, north-eastern India. Oryx 46(2): 308–311.

Tamma K., and Ramakrishnan, U. (2015) Higher speciation and lower extinction rates influence mammal diversity gradients in Asia. BMC Evolutionary Biology 15:11 DOI 10.1186/s12862-015-0289-1

Annexure IX: Distribution and natural history of mammals

1. Common Name: Bengal Slow Loris

Scientific Name: Nycticebus bengalensis

Fig. Distribution map of Bengal Slow Loris (Nycticebus bengalensis) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards).

Distribution: This species is distributed all across North east India, also known to occur in Bangladesh, Cambodia, China (southern Yunnan and possibly southern Guangxi), Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam.

KNP - It can be seen at Madarjury, Panbari, Diffolu, Mihimukh, Maloni and Kanchanjury.

Habitat and ecology: This arboreal species is found in tropical moist deciduous, semi-evergreen and evergreen rain forests. It is primarily frugivorous but has also been known to feed on few insects, gums, resins and latexes.

KNP - The species seems to prefer semi-evergreen forests in high elevated areas of the park.

Behaviour: It is a nocturnal species spending most of the day resting curled up in tree holes and dense vegetation. It is an important seed disperser and pollinator and it is also preyed upon by various carnivores.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Uncommon

Remark: Till early 2000 it was considered a subspecies of Sunda Slow Loris (N. coucang) from which it was separated into a distinct species in 2001 based on molecular phylogeny.

2. Common Name: Assam Macaque

Scientific Name: Macaca assamensis

Fig. Distribution map of Assam Macaque (Macaca assamensis) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards).

Distribution: This species is distributed widespread across North east India, parts of Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal; also known to occur in Bangladesh, Bhutan, South-western China, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand and Vietnam.

KNP - It can be seen at Bhaisamari and Holalpath.

Habitat and ecology: This species is found in tropical and sub-tropical deciduous, semi- evergreen and montane forests. It is found all the way from the flood plains to high mountains as high as 4000m. Generally an upland species, it is known to show both terrestrial and arboreal habits.

Behaviour: It is a diurnal species known to feed on fruits, seeds, leaves and invertebrates. They are often seen in troops with sizes varying from 13-35 individuals. They are known to raid fields of maize, wheat, buckwheat, millet etc.

IUCN Status: NT (Near Threatened)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Rare

Remark: There are two known subspecies, M. a. assamensis and M. a. pelops both separated geographically. This species was not detected during our study period. Only one guard was able to distinguish it from the M. mulatta.

3. Common Name: Rhesus Monkey

Scientific Name: Macaca mulatta

Fig. Distribution map of Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: The species is found throughout most of southern Asia, in eastern Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, central and southern China.

KNP: It can be seen at Rangamatia, Madarjury, Khokholi, Pohumari, Sohola, Dhuba, Borbeel, Rohumari, Bahubeel and Borghup.

Habitat and ecology: It inhabit in wide range of habitats such as temperate coniferous, moist and dry deciduous, bamboo, mixed forests, mangroves, scrub, rainforest, and around human habitations and developments, including cultivated areas, temples, and roadsides.

KNP: It generally prefers forests around the wetlands and rivers in the park.

Behaviour: This species is diurnal and omnivorous, and alternatively arboreal and terrestrial. They are often seen in troops with an average group size of 12.3 individuals. They are known to raid fields of maize, wheat, buckwheat, millet etc.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Very common

4. Common Name: Hoolock Gibbon

Scientific Name: Hoolock hoolock

Fig. Distribution map of Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock hoolock) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards , yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species is found in North east India, eastern Bangladesh and north-western Myanmar. In India its distribution is restricted to south of Brahmaputra and east of Dibang rivers.

KNP: It can be seen at Madarjury, Panbari, Diffolu,Borghup, Haldibari, Maloni, and Kanchanjury.

Habitat and ecology: This species is found to inhabit evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, mixed deciduous forests, and subtropical broadleaf hill forests.

KNP: They found in semi-evergreen forest of high elevated areas of the park.

Behaviour: This diurnal species is strictly arboreal in nature and spends most of its time in the sub-canopy to canopy. This species is known to have large home ranges, may be due to their high dependency on fruits. They use loud vocal communication to signal mating rituals, defence and teritory.

IUCN Status: EN (Endangered)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Uncommon

Remark: This species was earlier thought to be quite widespread as it was considered conspecific with the neighbouring Hoolock leuconedys.

5. Common Name: Capped Langur

Scientific Name: Trachypithecus pileatus

Fig. Distribution map of Capped Langur (Trachypithecus pileatus) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is found in North east India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Myanmar.

KNP: It can be seen at Borghup, Diffolu and Panbari.

Habitat and ecology: This species is found to inhabit subtropical evergreen, deciduous, bamboo and broadleaf forests.

KNP: It was found in semi-evergreen forests of high elevated areas of the park.

Behaviour: This diurnal species is predominantly arboreal and folivorous in nature.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

Remark: Currently there are four subspecies known.

6. Common Name: Northern Treeshrew

Scientific Name: Tupaia belangeri

Fig. Distribution map of Northern Treeshrew (Tupaia belangeri) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards)

Distribution: This species is found throughout North east India, Thailand, Bangladesh, Burma, Nepal, southern China, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam.

KNP - It can be seen at Panbari, Sundari, Diffolu and Maloni.

Habitat and ecology: This species is found to inhabit deciduous and evergreen primary and secondary forests. It is commonly seen near karsts and associated natural scrub vegetation.

Behaviour: This highly adaptable diurnal species is predominantly teristrial and is often found in plantations, regenerating scrub and abandoned dry rice fields.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concern)

WPA Status: Schedule II

Status in KNP: Rare

7. Common Name: Golden Jackal

Scientific Name: Canis aureus

Fig. Distribution map of Golden Jackal (Canis aureus) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study) Distribution: This species is widespread all across India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and parts of Indo-China; Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Central Asia; North and north-east Africa.

KNP: It can be seen at Sildubi and Panpur.

Habitat and ecology: This species is highly tolerant to a variety of habitats and hence are found from deserts to evergreen forests. They are highly opportunistic in nature and are known to often stay near human settlements to scavenge upon leftover food.

KNP: It was observed on fringes of the park, common in mixed deciduous forest and grasslands of northern range.

Behaviour: This highly adaptable species is terrestrial and omnivorous in nature.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

8. Common Name: Asian Black Bear

Scientific Name: Ursus thibetanus

Fig. Distribution map of Asian Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards)

Distribution: This species is all across the across the foothills of the Himalayas; Myanmar, south-eastern Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Russia. This species is known to occur in all countries in mainland Southeast Asia except Malaysia.

KNP: It can be seen at Mithunmari, Bhaisamari and Kholkholi.

Habitat and ecology: It is found in a variety of habitats in its distributional range including both coniferous and broad leafed forests. They are known to forage on succulent vegetation like shoots, forbs and leaves, insects variety of fruits, nuts and also hunt for meat based on availability across seasons.

Behaviour: This species is terrestrial and omnivorous in nature.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Rare 34

Remark: Three guards independently distinguished this species from sloth bear. It was not unlikely that this species found in KNP, but these records suggests there might be stray animals or very small population. Stray animals are reports from Karbi Anglong (Choudhury, 1997).

9. Common Name: Sloth Bear

Scientific Name: Melursus ursinus

Fig. Distribution map of Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards) Distribution: This species is widespread all across India; also known to occur in Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan.

KNP: It can be seen at Rangamatia, Maklung, Kholkholi, Bokpora, Gerakati, Dhuba, Tinibeel, Tamuli Pathar, Bhaisamari, Mithunmari, Arimora, Kathonibari, Gobroi, Holalpath, Mihimukh, Bimoli and Solmara.

Habitat and ecology: This species found across a wide range of habitats including tropical deciduous forests, savannas, scrub forests and grasslands. They are generally more common in low elevation forests. They forage primarily on termites, ants and fruits.

Behaviour: This species is terrestrial and omnivorous in nature, specifically adapted for myrmecophagy.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Uncommon

10. Common Name: Hog Badger

Scientific Name: Arctonyx collaris

Fig. Distribution map of Hog Badger (Arctonyx collaris) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards , yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is known to occur in Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Terai region; Bhutan, Mongolia, throughout southern China, Indochina, Myanmar and throughout Thailand.

KNP: It can be seen at Rangamatia, Maklung, Kholkholi, Bokpora, Gerakati, Dhuba, Panpur, Bhaisamari, Bherbheri, Kathonibari, Sundari, Naobhangi, Thunguru, Gendamari, Sonak Tapu, Naromara and Nahorkathoni.

Habitat and ecology: This species is fairly common within grassland habitats of Terai, also in dense, tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, and tall grassland-woodland complex forests.

KNP: It was common in forests and grasslands of the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is diurnal and omnivorous in nature. It has been observed to feed on tubers, roots, earthworms, insects etc.

IUCN Status: NT (Near Threatened)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

11. Common Name: Smooth-coated Otter

Scientific Name: Lutrogale perspicillata

Fig. Distribution map of Smooth-coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards , yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is distributed all across India; throughout south and southeast Asia.

KNP: Can be seen at Rangamatia, Sohola, Turturani, Panpur, Sildubi, Bahubeel, Rohumari, Diffolu and Naobhangi.

Habitat and ecology: This species is adapted to live in semiarid regions of Northwest India and Deccan plateau. It commonly uses large rivers, lakes, swamp forests, mangroves, flood plains and estuaries. They have also been seen to use rice fields for shelter and foraging, while rocky patches, sandy banks are used as shelter.

KNP: Generally found in wetlands and rivers of the park.

Behaviour: This diurnal species is an opportunistic feeder. It is predominantly a fish eater but often takes crustaceans, insects, frogs, birds and small rodents.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common 39

12. Common Name: European Otter

Scientific Name: Lutra lutra

Distribution: This species has the most widespread distribution across the Palaearctic region spreading across Europe, Asia and Africa. In Asia it's found across the Himalayas from Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar. In Europe it stretches from central Denmark, western Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, eastern France, Switzerland, western Austria and parts of Russia.

Habitat and ecology: This species is found in a variety of aquatic habitats including lakes, rivers, streams, marshes and swamps.

Behaviour: This species is predominantly nocturnal in most of its distributional range. They are largely solitary and an opportunistic feeder. It is predominantly a fish eater but often takes crustaceans, insects, frogs, birds and small rodents.

IUCN Status: NT (Near Threatened)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Unknown

Remark: The specimens are collected from KNP in early 20th Century (Hinton & Lindsey, 1926).

13. Common Name: Spotted Linsang

Scientific Name: Prionodon pardicolor

Fig. Distribution map of Spotted Linsang (Prionodon pardicolor) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards)

Distribution: This species is widespread across north east India, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand and Vietnam.

KNP: Can be seen at Panbari, Sundari and Haldibari.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in lowland hill and mountain forest, bamboo forest, secondary growth, dense grassland and along rivers. It is often recorded in both primary and secondary forests, mainly in mountain and hill areas.

KNP: Based on data collected from forest guards, appears that this species mainly found in high elevated semi-evergreen forest of the park.

Behaviour: This carnivore species is partly arboreal in nature and preys mostly on small vertebrates like birds, rodents, amphibians etc. It has also been recorded to be a scavenger on other animals.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Rare 41

Remark: Two guards independently agree that species found at Haldibari, one of them had seen road kill of the species.

14. Common Name: Indian Gray Mongoose

Scientific Name: Herpestes edwardsi

Fig. Distribution map of Indian Gray Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsi) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards) Distribution: This species is widespread all across India, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

KNP: It can be seen at Dhuba, Madarjury, Panbari, Gerakati, Rohumari, Sundari, Thungru and Ajarkathoni.

Habitat and ecology: This species is commonly found in secondary dry forests, scrub and degraded habitats. It is often seen near human settlements, villages and fields.

KNP: It appears that this species found along fringes of the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is diurnal and a common scavenger associated with human populations. They are generally carnivores feeding mostly on insects, small reptiles, frogs, rodents but they also scavenge in garbage dumps feeding on left over.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

15. Common Name: Small Asian Mongoose

Scientific Name: Herpestes javanicus

Fig. Distribution map of Small Asian Mongoose (Herpestes javanicus) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study) Distribution: This species is distributed across North India, Iran and Indochina. This species has also been introduced into various islands like West Indies, the Hawaiian Islands, Mauritius, the Fijian Islands, and Okinawa to control rats and snakes.

KNP: It can be seen at Sildubi, Bokpora, Gerakati,Bahubeel, Madarjury Dhuba, Panbari, Rohumari, Sundari, Diffolu, Kerasing, Kathonibari, Gobroi,Bordoloni and Thungru.

Habitat and ecology: This species is commonly found in secondary dry forests, scrub and degraded habitats. It is often seen near human settlements, villages and fields.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is diurnal and a common scavenger associated with human populations. They are omnivores feeding mostly on insects, small reptiles, frogs but they also scavenge in garbage dumps feeding on left over.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

16. Common Name: Jungle Cat

Scientific Name: Felis chaus

Fig. Distribution map of Jungle Cat (Felis chaus) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is widely distributed across India, Sri Lanka; through Southeast Asia to southern China. It is patchily distributed in Egypt, Israel, southern Lebanon, north western Jordan, western Syria, Turkey and western Iraq, Iran, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

KNP: It can be seen at Sildubi, Bokpora, Gerakati,Bahubeel, Madarjury Dhuba, Panbari, Rangamati, Maklung, Diffolu, Sundari, Panpur, Naromara, and Nahorkathoni.

Habitat and ecology: This species is commonly found in secondary dry forests, deciduous, scrub and degraded habitats. It is often seen near agricultural lands, villages and streams.

KNP: It was found in forests and grasslands, looks more common at fringes of the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is nocturnal and carnivore. They feeding mostly on small mammals like rodents, hares, small birds, reptiles, amphibians and fishes.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

17. Common Name: Leopard Cat

Scientific Name: Prionailurus bengalensis

Fig. Distribution map of Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is widespread across parts of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, throughout most of China, Russia and throughout Southeast Asia.

KNP: It can be seen at Kathonibari, Borakata, Bherbheri, Madarjury Panpur, Panbari, Rangamati, Diffolu, Sundari and Diffolumukh.

Habitat and ecology: This species is found in a wide range of habitats from tropical rainforest to temperate broadleaf and coniferous forest, as well as shrub forest and grasslands. They have also been observed to occur in disturbed secondary forests and plantations.

KNP: It was found in forests as well as in grasslands of the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is nocturnal and carnivore. They are feed mostly on small mammals like rodents, hares, small birds, reptiles, amphibians and fishes.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common 47

Remark: Leopard cats are often hunted for the skin which is commercially traded for fur.

18. Common Name: Fishing Cat

Scientific Name: Prionailurus viverrinus

Fig. Distribution map of Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is known from the Terai region of the Himalayan foothills, and eastern India, parts of Southern Western Ghats, Central India; Bangladesh, all across Sri Lanka and patchily across Southeast Asia.

KNP: It can be seen at Sildubi, Bokpora, Gerakati,Panbari, Borghup Alubari, Kholkholi, Rohumari, Natunbeel, Diffolu, Naobhangi, Kathonibari, Tinibeel, Ajarkathoni, Borbeel, Gendamari, Sohola, and Jamuguri.

Habitat and ecology: This species is strongly associated with wetlands and are typically found in swamps and marshy areas, lakes, reeds, tidal creeks and mangrove areas. They are found across a wide range of habitats but are localized near water bodies.

KNP: Mostly prefer wetlands (Beels) of the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is nocturnal carnivore and a good swimmer. They predominantly depend on fishes also take small mammals and scavenge on livestock carcasses, kills by larger predators.

IUCN Status: EN(Endangered)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

Remark: Even though they are widely distributed, in recent times this species has been wiped out from many of its earlier known distributional ranges. 19. Common Name: Small Indian Civet

Scientific Name: Viverricula indica

Fig. Distribution map of Small Indian Civet (Viverricula indica) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is widespread across most of India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, south and central China, Bangladesh, mainland South-east Asia and various islands of Indonesia.

KNP: It can be seen at Maklung, Bokpora, Gerakati,Panbari, Panpur, Dhuba, Rohumari, Natunbeel, Diffolu, Naromara, Titiliguri, Bherbheri, Dafflong, Borbeel, Deopani, Donga and Rangamati.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in a wide range of habits but prefers degraded and fragmented landscapes in deciduous forests, grasslands, scrubs and are also often seen close to human habitation.

KNP: It was found in grasslands and forests of the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is mainly nocturnal carnivore. They predominantly depend on rats, mice, birds, snakes, insects but at times also eat fruits & roots.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

Remark: This species is extensively hunted for its skin and for the production of its perineal gland secretion, 'civet' musk, a raw ingredient used in the perfume, medicine and other industries.

20. Common Name: Large Indian Civet

Scientific Name: Viverra zibetha

Fig. Distribution map of Large Indian Civet (Viverra zibetha) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study) Distribution: This species is found in most part of north east India, Laos, Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand , Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Myanmar, Nepal, Bhutan and Singapore.

KNP: It can be seen at Turtutrani, Gerakati,Madarjury, Panpur, Sundari, Natunbeel, Diffolu, Naromara, Borakata, Haldibari and Borbeel.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in primary deciduous and evergreen forests. It has also been recorded from secondary forests and plantations.

KNP: It was found in grasslands and forests of the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is a solitary carnivore, active mostly at night. Its diet consists of a wide range of animals including fish, birds, lizards, frogs, insects, scorpions, crabs as well as poultry and garbage.

IUCN Status: NT (Near Threatened)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

21. Common Name: Asian Palm Civet

Scientific Name: Paradoxurus hermaphroditus

Fig. Distribution map of Asian Palm Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) in KNP (red circles –localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is distributed widely all across India, central, south and south-eastern Asia. This species was also introduced in Japan in the late 1800s.

KNP: It can be seen at Dhuba, Sundari, Diffolu, Boruntika and Naromara.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in wide range of habitats including deciduous and evergreen forests, plantations and near human settlements. This species has been seen to be strongly associated with humans taking refuge in barns, drains or roofs during the day and foraging on fruits, insects and rodents at night.

KNP: Generally found in forest patches of the park. 52

Behaviour: This species even though is terrestrial by nature is an excellent climber and often climbs trees in search of ripe fruits and berries. It prefers an omnivorous diet with a wide mix of fruits, coffee seeds, insects, small birds and rodents.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (Part I)

Status in KNP: Uncommon

22. Common Name: Leopard

Scientific Name: Panthera pardus

Fig. Distribution map of Leopard (Panthera pardus) in KNP (red circles -localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is distributed widely all across India, most of sub-Saharan Africa, south-western and eastern Turkey, through Southwest Asia, China, Russian Far East, as well as on the islands of Java and Sri Lanka.

KNP: It can be seen at Rangamati, Gerakati, Madarjury, Panpur, Panbari Sundari, Bherbheri, Diffolu, Kathonibari, Borakata, Diffolumukh and Borbeel.

Habitat and ecology: This species has one of the most diverse habitat preferences ranging from the dry deserts to tropical moist and montane forests. Even though most of the thriving 53

population is currently confined to protected areas they are often known to come close to human habitation in search of easy prey like stray dogs.

KNP: Generally found in forests and tea gardens around the Park.

Behaviour: This is one of the most adaptable species of large carnivores occurring in primary dense forests as well as equally commonly in degraded human modified landscapes. They are predominantly nocturnal but are also known to be crepuscular in activity. They prey upon a variety of animals consisting primarily of ungulates, hare as well as stray dogs.

IUCN Status: NT (Near Threatened)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Uncommon

23. Common Name: Tiger

Scientific Name: Panthera tigris

Fig. Distribution map of Tiger (Panthera tigris) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study) Distribution: This species is distributed widely across India, some breeding populations also recorded in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, Russia, and Thailand.

KNP: We recorded it at Kholkholi, Rangamati, Pohumari, Diffolu, Borbeel, Buloni and Borghup, but occurs across the whole park.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in diverse habitat ranging from the dry deciduous to tropical moist, montane evergreen forests to mangrove forests. They require large connected forests as they have huge home ranges.

KNP: It was found in almost all habitats in the Park.

Behaviour: Tigers are solitary animals with adults maintaining exclusive territories. Adults are known to take large mammals especially ungulates as prey while juveniles seldom hunt birds, fish, rodents, insects, amphibians, reptiles in addition to other mammals such as primates and porcupines.

IUCN Status: EN (Endangered)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

24. Common Name: Barasingha

Scientific Name: Rucervus duvaucelii

Fig. Distribution map of Barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii) in KNP (red circles -localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is distributed only in isolated patches of central and north India and south-western parts of Nepal.

KNP: Commonly seen in Sohola, Donga, Borbeel, Bahubeel, Rangamati, Turturani, Kholkholi, Naobhangi, Kathonibari, Tamuli Pathar, Dhuba, Panpur and Naromara.

Habitat and ecology: This species in Central India occupy open sal forests with undergrowth of grass, while the northern populations occupy grasslands. They are predominantly grazers but also occasionally feed on aquatic plants.

KNP: They were highly restricted to wetlands in the park.

Behaviour: They are diurnal herbivorous ungulates and live in herds. They are known to congregate in large herds during dry seasons in search of water and new growth. They are polygamous in nature.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Common

Remark: Currently there are three subspecies known based on their geographic distribution; R. d. duvaucelii from the Indo-Gangetic plains of India and Nepal; R. d. branderi from central India, between the rivers Ganges and Godavari and R. d. ranjitsinhi from the Brahmaputra plain.

25. Common Name: Sambar

Scientific Name: Rusa unicolor

Fig. Distribution map of Sambar (Rusa unicolor) in KNP (red circles -localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is distributed all across India, Sri Lanka, extending into much of south China, Taiwan, Bangladesh, throughout mainland Southeast Asia and many of the main islands of the Greater Sundas and Borneo.

KNP: It can be seen at Maklung, Bokpora, Gerakati,Panbari, Panpur,Turturani, Dhuba, Rohumari, Nahorkathoni, Diffolu, Naromara, Bherbheri, Sildubi, Borghup, Borbeel, Madarjury, Buloni, Kholkholi, Pohumari, Sohola and Rangamati.

Habitat and ecology: This species is the only large ungulate to occupy a wide array of habitats. They occur in arid scrub forests of north-western India to deciduous forests throughout the peninsular region as well as pine forests of Himalayan foothills and evergreen forests of Western Ghats and Northeast India.

KNP: Mainly prefer forest and elevated areas in the park.

Behaviour: They are diurnal herbivorous ungulates often seen solitary or in herds. They are grazers and browsers and are known to have a wide range of plants in their diet.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule III

Status in KNP: Very Common

26. Common Name: Gaur

Scientific Name: Bos gaurus

Fig. Distribution map of Gaur (Bos gaurus) in KNP (red circles -localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards)

Distribution: This species is distributed patchily across India; it's scattered in Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Laos, Malaysia Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam.

KNP: It can be seen at Kholkholi, Natunbeel, Pohumari, Mithunmari, Arimora, Gobroi, Diffolumukh and Aamkathoni.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur across deciduous, moist evergreen and tropical rain forests. They are common in high elevation forests but also occur in lowlands. In some places they also are seen in plantations along forests.

Behaviour: They are generally diurnal herbivores but have often been reported to be active at night, especially in disturbed landscapes. They are grazers and browsers eating mostly young

green grasses but also leaves, fruit, twigs, and bark of various woody species, as well as coarse dry grasses and bamboo.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Rare

Remark: The forest guards, those who recognised this species, told that they haven't seen it in last 10 years inside the park.

27. Common Name: Water Buffalo

Scientific Name: Bubalus arnee

Fig. Distribution map of Water Buffalo (Bubalus arnee) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: Even though this species had a much wider distribution in the past, currently they are restricted to small pockets in the Bastar region of Madhya Pradesh, in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Orissa and Maharashtra; southern Nepal, southern Bhutan, western Thailand, eastern Cambodia, and northern Myanmar.

KNP: Commonly seen in Sohola, Donga, Borbeel, Bahubeel, Rangamati, Turturani, Kholkholi, Gendamari, Rohumari, Buloni, Borghup Bokpora, Naharkathoni and Naromara.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to be strongly associated with water bodies preferring moist grasslands, marshes and swamps surrounded by riparian forest, deciduous forests and woodland.

KNP: It was commonly found in grasslands and forests near wetland in the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial herbivore can be both diurnal and nocturnal. They are grazers by preference, feeding mainly on grasses when available, but also have been reported to eat herbs, fruits, and bark as well as browsing trees and shrubs. They are known to form maternal groups of loosely structured herds while adult males form small herds of their own, older males are often being solitary. IUCN Status: EN (Endangered)

WPA Status: Schedule I (Part I)

Status in KNP: Very Common

28. Common Name: Wild Boar

Scientific Name: Sus scrofa

Fig. Distribution map of Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species is widespread all across India. It also occurs throughout the steppe and broadleaved forest regions of the Palaearctic, from western Europe to the Russian Far East, extending southwards as far North Africa, the Mediterranean Basin and the Middle East, through India, Indo-China, Taiwan and the Greater Sunda Islands of South-east Asia.

KNP: Commonly seen in Sohola, Donga, Borbeel, Bahubeel, Rangamati, Turturani, Kholkholi, Gendamari, Rohumari, Buloni, Borghup Bokpora, Naharkathoni, Benga, Murphuloni and Naromara.

Habitat and ecology: This species is a habitat generalist and known to occur in almost all possible habitats from temperate and tropical habitats, from semi-desert to tropical rain forests, temperate woodlands, grasslands and reed jungles. It has often been seen to move around human habitation and disturbed landscapes like agriculture, plantations etc. in search of food.

KNP: It was found in almost all habitats of the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species can be both diurnal and nocturnal. It is omnivorous, feeding predominantly on vegetable matter, principally fruits, seeds, roots and tubers. They also feed on earthworms, insects and other invertebrates; in mangrove areas molluscs, crabs and other arthropods and even fishes.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule III

Status in KNP: Very Common

29. Common Name: Hog Deer

Scientific Name: Axis porcinus

Fig. Distribution map of Hog Deer (Axis porcinus) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study). 61

Distribution: This species is patchily distributed in parts of north and northeast India. It also occurs in small populations in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Nepal and Pakistan.

KNP: Commonly seen at Sohola, Donga, Borbeel, Bahubeel, Rangamati, Turturani, Kholkholi, Gendamari, Rohumari, Buloni, Borghup Bokpora, Naharkathoni, Benga, Murphuloni, Diffolu, Panpur, Sildubi and Naromara, Bhaisamari, Boruntika and Arimora. Habitat and ecology: This species is predominantly prefers grasslands of Terai region, flood plains grassland. They have been reported to use habitat consisting of wet or moist tall grasslands, often associated with medium to large rivers.

KNP: It was found in almost all habitats of the park, but generally preferred low lying areas.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is crepuscular in its activity in undisturbed habitats but can be active at night in disturbed areas. They are grazers and aggregations are frequently seen on grazing grounds.

IUCN Status: EN (Endangered)

WPA Status: Schedule III

Status in KNP: Very Common

30. Common Name: Northern Red Muntjac

Scientific Name: Muntiacus vaginalis

Fig. Distribution map of Northern Red Muntjac (Muntiacus vaginalis) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards, yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is widespread all across India. It also occurs in Sri Lanka, northern Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and southern China, into southeast Asia to the northern part of the Thai–Malay peninsula.

KNP: It can be seen at Naromara, Nahorkathoni, Bokpora, Madarjury, Panbari, Borghup, Alubari, Kholkholi, Panpur, Sildubi, Gerakati, Rohumari, Bherbheri, Diffolu, Baghmari, Ajogor, Naobhangi, Boruntika.

Habitat and ecology: This species is occupies a variety of habitat including scrub, tropical deciduous and evergreen forests. They have also been observed to inhabit secondary old growth forests, disturbed woodlands and plantations along forests.

KNP: It prefers forested and high elevated areas in the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is predominantly diurnal in its activity but also has been recorded to be active at night. They feed on fallen fruits, buds, small seeds, twigs, seed pods, tender leaves, and young grass. This species is generally solitary in nature very rarely moving in pairs or in a herd.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule III

Status in KNP: Very Common

31. Common Name: Indian Rhinoceros

Scientific Name: Rhinoceros unicornis

Fig. Distribution map of Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species is currently restricted to few small populations in northern West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Assam in India; and Nepal.

KNP: Commonly seen at Sohola, Donga, Borbeel, Bahubeel, Rangamati, Turturani, Kholkholi, Gendamari, Rohumari, Buloni, Borghup Bokpora, Naharkathoni, Benga, Murphuloni and Naromara.

Habitat and ecology: This species inhabits riverine grasslands of Brahmaputra valley and Terai region. They prefer alluvial plain grasslands but are also known to occupy adjoining swamps and forests.

KNP: Though found in all the habitats of the park, mostly prefer wetlands or water bodies surrounded with forests or tall grasslands.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is predominantly diurnal in its activity. They feed on mainly grasses, but also some fruit, leaves, shrub and tree branches, and cultivated crops. As human population surrounds the current habitats, they often move in cultivated areas, pastures, and secondary forests.

IUCN Status: VU (Vulnerable)

WPA Status: Schedule I (part I)

Status in KNP: Very Common

Remark: This species is under immense pressure of poaching due to the use of its horns in traditional chinese medicines.

32. Common Name: Asian Elephant

Scientific Name: Elephas maximus

Fig. Distribution map of Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species is currently restricted to four general areas: north eastern India, central India, north western India, and southern India. It also occurs in Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka in South Asia and Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam in South-east Asia.

KNP: Commonly seen at Sohola, Rangamati, Turturani, Kholkholi, Sildubi, Rohumari, Buloni, Borghup, Bokpora, Naharkathoni, Pohumari, Madarjury, Panbari, Panpur,Diffolu and Naromara.

Habitat and ecology: This species is a habitat generalist and it occurs in grassland, tropical evergreen forest, semi-evergreen forest, moist deciduous forest, dry deciduous forested and dry thorn forest. It also frequents cultivated lands, secondary forests and scrublands.

KNP: Generally prefer forested area along wetlands or other water bodies in the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is predominantly diurnal in its activity. They have large home ranges and tend to move to distant lands for foraging. They browse and graze on a variety of plants. They are often known to raid crops.

IUCN Status: EN (Endangered)

WPA Status: Schedule I (part I)

Status in KNP: Very Common

33. Common Name: Black Giant Squirrel

Scientific Name: Ratufa bicolor

Fig. Distribution map of Black Giant Squirrel (Ratufa bicolor) in KNP (red circles -localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards , yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species is widespread in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland and West Bengal in India. It also found in Bangladesh, Bhutan, eastern Nepal, China, patchily distributed in Myanmar and Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Peninsular Malaysia and Indonesia.

KNP: It can be seen at Madarjury, Diffolu, Dhuba, Panbari and Maloni.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in tropical and subtropical montane evergreen and deciduous forests.

KNP: It found in semi-evergreen forests in high elevated areas of the park.

Behaviour: This arboreal and diurnal species is known to use tree hollows in mid high canopy for shelter. It prefers fruits and leaves and seldom comes to the forest floor for feeding.

IUCN Status: NT (Near Threatened)

WPA Status: Schedule II (part I)

Status in KNP: Uncommon

Remark: A guard had seen the species at Dhuba Camp area, which seems unusual location for presence of the species. It may be a stray individual or a small population may exists in that area.

34. Common Name: Irrawaddy Squirrel

Scientific Name: Callosciurus pygerythrus

Fig. Distribution map of Irrawaddy Squirrel (Callosciurus pygerythrus) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards , yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species is widely distributed in parts of northeast India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and China. In Southeast Asia, it is largely confined to western and central Myanmar.

KNP: Commonly seen at Madarjury, Panbari, Kholkholi, Rangamoti, Pohumari, Dhuba, Naromara, Rohumari, Bokpora and Borghup.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in mid canopy temperate, tropical and subtropical moist forests with thick to moderate evergreen forest patches.

KNP: It found in semi-evergreen and mixed deciduous forests of the park.

Behaviour: This arboreal and diurnal species is known to prefer fruits and leaves for feeding. It reproduces once a year with an average litter size of 3-4 young ones.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (part I)

Status in KNP: Very Common

35. Common Name: Orange-bellied Himalayan Squirrel

Scientific Name: Dremomys lokriah

Fig. Distribution map of Orange-bellied Himalayan Squirrel (Dremomys lokriah) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards).

Distribution: This species is widely distributed in parts of northeast India; Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal; southern China and has also been recorded from western and northern Myanmar.

KNP: We were seen it at Panbari.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in subtropical montane evergreen and broadleaved forests, moist deciduous forests, oak-rhododendron forests and conifer forests.

KNP: It appears that species prefer high elevated/hilly and semi-evergreen forest areas in the park.

Behaviour: This arboreal and diurnal species is known to use tree hollows in mid high canopy of dense oak, bamboo, fir and pine forest patches for shelter. It prefers fruits and leaves and seldom comes to the forest floor for feeding.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (part I)

Status in KNP: Rare

36. Common Name: Himalayan Striped Squirrel

Scientific Name: Tamiops macclellandii

Fig. Distribution map of Himalayan Striped Squirrel (Tamiops macclellandii) in KNP (red circles -localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards , yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species is widely distributed in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim in India; Bhutan and Nepal; southern China, Myanmar, Thailand, western Cambodia, northern Vietnam, western Laos and northern Peninsular Malaysia.

KNP: It can be seen Kholkholi, Rangmati, Pohumari, Naromara, Madarjury, Rohumari, Panbari, Sundari and Diffolu.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in a variety of habitats across its distribution. It is a common species in secondary forests, scrub and plantations.

KNP: It found in semi-evergreen and mixed deciduous forests of the park. 69

Behaviour: This arboreal and diurnal species is quite adaptable to habitat degradation. They are often seen near human habitation, in fruit orchards, gardens and coconut plantations.

IUCN Status: LC (Lest Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (part I)

Status in KNP: Common

37. Common Name: Particolored Flying Squirrel

Scientific Name: Hylopetes alboniger

Fig. Distribution map of Particolored Flying Squirrel (Hylopetes alboniger) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards). Distribution: This species is distributed across north eastern India; Nepal, Bhutan, China, Myanmar, northern Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and marginally in Cambodia.

KNP: It can be seen at Panbari, Diffolu and Haldibari.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur tropical and subtropical montane forests, temperate oak and rhododendron forests. They have also been recorded from primary forests as well as secondary, degraded forests and scrubby habitat.

KNP: It appears to prefer semi-evergreen forest in high elevated areas of the park.

Behaviour: This arboreal species is predominantly nocturnal. Average litter size is 2-3 young ones.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (part I)

Status in KNP: Rare

Remark: Interaction with forest guards revealed that this species was common in villages, areca

nut orchards and forested areas of Karbi Anglong adjacent to KNP.

38. Common Name: Malayan Porcupine

Scientific Name: Hystrix brachyura

Fig. Distribution map of Malayan Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards , yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species is widely distributed all across north eastern India; Nepal, central and southern China, throughout Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, through Peninsular Malaysia to Singapore, Sumatra and throughout Borneo.

KNP: It can be seen at Pohumari, Naromara, Madajury, Borghup, Rotikhowa, Rangamati, Maklung, Dhuba, Kholkholi, Panpur, Panbari, Turturani, Gerakati, Rohumari, Buloni,Diffolu, Bokpora, Mithunmari, Bherbheri, Sundari and Kathonibari

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in a variety of habitats across its distribution. It is a common species in scrub, open areas and agricultural land near forests and rocky outcrops.

KNP: It was found in forest as well as in grasslands in the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is predominantly nocturnal. They prefer rocky outcrops for den and creating burrows for shelter. They are omnivorous.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (part I)

Status in KNP: Common

39. Common Name: Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine

Scientific Name: Atherurus macrourus

Fig. Distribution map of Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine (Atherurus macrourus) in KNP (red circles -localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards , yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study).

Distribution: This species has been recorded in Assam and may be found in Bangladesh. It is distributed in north-eastern South Asia, through much of central and southern China and mainland Southeast Asia.

KNP: It can be seen at Sundari, Boruntika, Madarjury and Diffolu.

Habitat and ecology: It is found in subtropical and tropical montane forests. It prefers areas with thick undergrowth and intermingled with cane, bamboo brakes and palms.

KNP: They seems to prefer semi-evergreen forest covered high elevated areas in the park.

Behaviour: This species is nocturnal and fossorial.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule II (part I)

Status in KNP: Uncommon

40. Common Name: Indian Hare

Scientific Name: Lepus nigricollis

Fig. Distribution map of Indian Hare (Lepus nigricollis) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards).

Distribution: This species is widely distributed across India except mangroves of Sundarbans and high elevation in Himalayas; Pakistan, southern Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.

KNP: It can be seen at Madarjury, Panbari, Sundari, Baghmari, Old Ketang, Deopani, Sonak Tapu, Janata, Bahubeel (Burapahar) and Bhalukjan.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur throughout a wide variety of habitats including grasslands, barren agricultural fields, crop fields and deciduous forests. It is common around human habitation along fields and plantations.

KNP: It was common in tea gardens and agricultural fields around the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species can be seen active both at day and night. They breed throughout the year preferring monsoon.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Schedule IV

Status in KNP: Uncommon

41. Common Name: Chinese Pangolin

Scientific Name: Manis pentadactyla

Fig. Distribution map of Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) in KNP (red circles - localities of occurrence of the species based on data collected from forest guards). Distribution: This species is known to occur all across north east India; Nepal, southern Bhutan, northern and western Myanmar, to northern regions of Laos, northern Vietnam, northwest Thailand, and through southern China.

KNP: It can be seen Kholkholi, Maklung, Borghup, Madarjury, Bimoli, Panbari, Alubari and Diffolu.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur throughout a wide variety of habitats including primary and secondary tropical forests, limestone forests, bamboo forests, broad-leaf and coniferous forests, grasslands and agricultural fields in its distributional range.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is primarily nocturnal and a good climber. It is a solitary animal feeding primarily on ants and termites.

IUCN Status: CR (Critically Endangered)

WPA Status: Schedule I (part I)

Status in KNP: Uncommon

42. Common Name: Himalayan Mole

Scientific Name: Euroscaptor micrura

Fig. Distribution map of Himalayan Mole (Euroscaptor micrura) in KNP (yellow circles - localities of occurrence of the species recorded during this study)

Distribution: This species is widely distributed across north east India; in the Himalayas, Nepal, Bhutan, parts of China and Malaysia.

KNP: The mole burrows were common in Madarjury and Panbari.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in subtropical and tropical montane forests.

KNP: They seems to prefer semi-evergreen forest covered high elevated areas in the park.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is primarily nocturnal in nature. It lives in the leaf litter and rocky gravelly areas.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned).

WPA Status: Unlisted

Status in KNP: Common

43. Common Name: Asian House Shrew

Scientific Name: Suncus murinus

Distribution: This species is widespread all across India; Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan in China, Thailand and Vietnam.

KNP: Common in villages and area nut and tea gardens around the park.

Habitat and ecology: This species is known to occur in various types of habitats including natural forests, scrubland and grasslands and nearly all secondary and degraded habitats such as plantations, pasture, cultivated fields, suburban and urban areas.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is primarily nocturnal in nature. It is a human commensal in most of its range. It generally feed on insects and other invertebrates.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Unlisted

43. Common Name: Asian Gray Shrew

Scientific Name: Crocidura attenuata

Distribution: This species is widespread all across India; Cambodia, China, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Taiwan in China, Thailand and Vietnam.

KNP: Common in villages and area nut and tea gardens around the park.

Habitat and ecology: It is known to occur in various types of habitats including lowland and montane tropical and subtropical moist forest, bamboo forest, herbaceous vegetation, scrubland, foothills of Terai regions. It has often been found in secondary forest close to rivers.

Behaviour: This terrestrial species is primarily nocturnal in nature. It generally feed on insects and other invertebrates.

IUCN Status: LC (Least Concerned)

WPA Status: Unlisted

References

Choudhury, A. U. (1997). The status of bears in Assam, India. International Bear News 6(2):16 81

Hinton, M. A. C. and Lindsay, H. M.(1926). Bombay Natural History Society's mammals survey of India, Burma and Ceylon. J. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 31:383-403.

Annexure X: Images of mammals

Images of mammals captured through camera trapping in Kaziranga National Park

Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta)

Jungle Cat (Felis chaus)

Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis)

Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus)

Tiger (Panthera tigris)

Leopard (Panthera pardus)

Asian Palm Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus)

Small Indian Civet (Viverricula indica)

Large Indian Civet (Viverra zibetha)

Hog Badger (Arctonyx collaris)

Small Asian Mongoose (Herpestes javanicus)

Golden Jackal (Canis aureus)

Sambar (Rusa unicolor)

Water Buffalo (Bubalus arnee)

Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis)

Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus)

Northern Red Muntjac (Muntiacus vaginalis)

Hog Deer (Axis porcinus)

Malayan Porcupine (Hystrix brachyura)

Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine (Atherurus macrourus)

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)

Images of mammals found in Kaziranga National Park

Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock hoolock)

Capped Langur (Trachypithecus pileatus)

Northern Treeshrew (Tupaia belangeri)

Smooth-coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata)

Barasingha (Rucervus duvaucelii)

Annexure XI: Checklist of mammals

Sr. Common Name Scientific Name Order No. 1 Bengal Slow Loris Nycticebus bengalensis PRIMATES 2 Assam Macaque Macaca assamensis PRIMATES 3 Rhesus Monkey Macaca mulatta PRIMATES 4 Hoolock Gibbon Hoolock hoolock PRIMATES 5 Capped Langur Trachypithecus pileatus PRIMATES 6 Northern Treeshrew Tupaia belangeri SCANDENTIA 7 Golden Jackal Canis aureus CARNIVORA 8 Asian Black Bear Ursus thibetanus CARNIVORA 9 Sloth Bear Melursus ursinus CARNIVORA 10 Hog Badger Arctonyx collaris CARNIVORA 11 Smooth-coated Otter Lutrogale perspicillata CARNIVORA 12 European Otter Lutra lutra CARNIVORA 13 Spotted Linsang Prionodon pardicolor CARNIVORA 14 Indian Gray Mongoose Herpestes edwardsi CARNIVORA 15 Small Asian Mongoose Herpestes javanicus CARNIVORA 16 Jungle Cat Felis chaus CARNIVORA 17 Leopard Cat Prionailurus bengalensis CARNIVORA 18 Fishing Cat Prionailurus viverrinus CARNIVORA 19 Small Indian Civet Viverricula indica CARNIVORA 20 Large Indian Civet Viverra zibetha CARNIVORA 21 Asian Palm Civet Paradoxurus hermaphroditus CARNIVORA 22 Leopard Panthera pardus CARNIVORA 23 Tiger Panthera tigris CARNIVORA 24 Barasingha Rucervus duvaucelii ARTIODACTYLA 25 Sambar Rusa unicolor ARTIODACTYLA 26 Gaur Bos gaurus ARTIODACTYLA 27 Water Buffalo Bubalus arnee ARTIODACTYLA 28 Wild Boar Sus scrofa ARTIODACTYLA 29 Hog Deer Axis porcinus ARTIODACTYLA 30 Northern Red Muntjac Muntiacus vaginalis ARTIODACTYLA 31 Indian Rhinoceros Rhinoceros unicornis PERISSODACTYLA 32 Asian Elephant Elephas maximus PROBOSCIDEA 33 Black Giant Squirrel Ratufa bicolor RODENTIA 34 Irrawaddy Squirrel Callosciurus pygerythrus RODENTIA Orange-bellied Himalayan 35 Squirrel Dremomys lokriah RODENTIA 36 Himalayan Striped Squirrel Tamiops mcclellandii RODENTIA 37 Particolored Flying Squirrel Hylopetes alboniger RODENTIA 38 Malayan Porcupine Hystrix brachyura RODENTIA 39 Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine Atherurus macrourus RODENTIA 40 Indian Hare Lepus nigricollis LOGOMORPHA 41 Chinese Pangolin Manis pentadactyla PHOLIDOTA

100

42 Himalayan Mole Euroscaptor micrura SORICOMORPHA 43 Asian House Shrew Suncus murinus SORICOMORPHA 44 Asian Gray Shrew Crocidura attenuata SORICOMORPHA

101

Black Giant Squirrel (Ratufa bicolor)

Irrawaddy Squirrel (Callosciurus pygerythrus) 102

Himalayan Striped Squirrel (Tamiops mcclellandii)

103