Site-Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck in Shuklaphanta

Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck in Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 2016-2020

Government of Nepal Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation

Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck in Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 2016-2020 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck in Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal, 2016-2020

© DNPWC 2016

Published by: Government of Nepal Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Babarmahal, Kathmandu, Nepal

Supported by: National Trust for Nature Conservation, Hariyo Ban Program

Citation: Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (2016): Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck in Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal (2016–2020). Government of Nepal, Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation, Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Photo Credits: Hemanta Kumar Yadav, NTNC (Cover, II, 9, 13, 14 & 21 pages) Baburam Lamichhane, NTNC (1, 22 & Back Cover pages) Amit Duwadi (7 & 25 pages)

Hariyo Ban Publication Number : 074

Disclaimer: The Hariyo Ban Program is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents of this publication are the responsibility of DNPWC and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY III

1. CONTEXT 1-6 1.1 Introduction and Background 1 1.2 Status of blackbuck in Nepal 2 1.3 Reintroduction efforts in Nepal 3 1.4 Challenges and threats in blackbuck conservation in Nepal 6

2. BLACKBUCK CONSERVATION ACTION PLAN 7-8 2.1 Guiding principle of the Action Plan 7 2.2 Strategic approaches 8

3. VISION, GOAL, OBJECTIVES, OUTPUTS AND ACTIVITIES 9-13 3.1 Vision 9 3.2 Goal 9 3.3 Objectives 9 3.4 Issues, strategies and activities 9 Objective 1: Population management 9 Objective 2: Habitat management 11 Objective 3: Strengthen community engagement for blackbuck conservation 12 Objective 4: Establish sustainable financing mechanism 12

4. MONITORING PLAN IN LOGICAL FRAMEWORK 14-20

5. IMPLEMENTATION 21-22 5.1 Human resource 22 5.2 Monitoring and Evaluation 22

6. BUDGET PLAN 23-23 6.1 Summary of the budget 23

REFERENCES 24

ANNEXES 25-31 Annex 1: Detail of the budget 26 Annex 2: Description of the species 30

List of Tables Table 1: Date, source, age and sex composition of reintroduced blackbuck in SWR in 2012 3 Table 2: Salient features of Hirapur Phanta in SWR 4 Table 3: Logical framework 15 Table 4: Summary of the estimated budget in NPR, 000 23

List of Figure Figure 1: Population trend of blackbuck in Blackbuck Conservation Area of Khairapur, Bardia, Nepal between 1975 and 2015 3 Figure 2: Population trend of newly reintroduced blackbuck in Hirapur Phanta of SWR 4 Figure 3: Reintroduced blackbuck site in Hirapur Phanta of SWR 5 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

BCA Blackbuck Conservation Area BZ Buffer Zone CARE Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere CBAPU Community Based Anti-Poaching Unit CBO Community Based Organization CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora CR Critically Endangered DNPWC Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation FECOFUN Federation of Community Forest Users Nepal GIS Geographic Information System GPS Global Positioning System Ha Hectare I/NGO International/Non-Governmental Organization IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature MoFSC Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation NPR Nepali Rupee NT Near Threatened NTNC National Trust for Nature Conservation SWR Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve USAID United States Agency for International Development WWF World Wildlife Fund SCP Shuklaphanta Conservation Program Sq. Km Square Kilometer ZSL Zoological Society

II Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The goal of the Site Specific Conservation local communities for increased wealth; risk of Action Plan for Blackbuck in Shuklaphanta unprecedented climatic events e.g. drought, Wildlife Reserve (2016–2020) is to re– flood; and financial sustainability. Realizing established free roaming wild population of the need for a coordinated and collaborative blackbuck in Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve effort to address the aforementioned issues (SWR) so as to conserve and manage the in managing the translocated blackbuck, this blackbucks reintroduced to SWR in 2012 as part site specific conservation action plan has been of a national effort to establish a second viable prepared for blackbuck in SWR. population in Nepal. As of 2016, the reintroduced population is kept in a fenced enclosure of 17 The action plan is divided into two sections. hectares in Hirapur Phanta of SWR to ensure The first section presents the overall status its survival before releasing the animals in the of blackbuck in Nepal, and the reintroduced wild. The current population of blackbuck in SWR is small and could crash at any time due population in SWR, along with current to disease or a stochastic event. Besides this, management issues. The second section presents some key issues need to be addressed including: the action plan with a logical framework for the size of enclosure given the growing the long-term effective conservation and population; limited experience of best practices management of blackbuck. for blackbuck translocation and reintroduction; livestock pressure on the habitat of SWR; In order to achieve the action plan goal, the widespread poverty and high expectation of the objectives and strategies of the plan are:

Objective Strategy

Objective 1: Manage blackbuck population for 1. Ensure adequate breeding and foraging space by long term viability in SWR expanding existing enclosure 2. Closely monitor habitat condition and manage scientifically 3. Improve veterinary services 4. Ensure animal safety 5. Ensure effective coordination among stakeholders including private sector

Objective 2: Manage habitat in SWR to support 1. Improve habitat quality through habitat blackbuck population in the long term management interventions and develop mechanism for information sharing 2. Use cutting-edge technology in habitat research and monitoring 3. Apply best available management tools for habitat management

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal III Objective Strategy

Objective 3: Strengthen community engagement 1. Engage local communities in conservation for blackbuck conservation through alternative livelihood options 2. Develop alternative forest resources in private and community lands

Objective 4: Establish sustainable financing 1. Develope and implement mechanism to grow and mechanism sustain the fund 2. Foster coordination and collaboration with potential conservation partners for resource leverage 1

CONTEXT

1.1 Introduction and background 50,000 individuals in the recent past (Mallon 2008). The species is now listed in Appendix Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) is native to II of the Convention on International Trade in parts of Nepal, India and Pakistan. There are Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora four subspecies of blackbuck, namely: Antilope (CITES), classed as ‘near threatened’ in the cervicapra cervicapra in Nepal and North India; International Union for the Conservation of Antilope cervicapra centralis in Central India; Nature (IUCN) Red List, and protected under Antilope cervicapra rajputanae in Western India; the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and Antilope cervicapra rupicapra in South India. Act 1973 in Nepal. It is nationally assessed as Prior to the nineteenth century, blackbuck Critically Endangered (CR) in Nepal (Jnawali et was one of the most abundant ungulates in al. 2011). the Indian subcontinent, with an estimated population of around 4 million (Long 2003). Blackbuck has been introduced into the United However, hunting and habitat loss caused a States, Argentina and Australia. It was first substantial decline in population, with less than released in Texas in 1932, with repeated releases 80,000 animals remaining by 1964. The native in subsequent years for hunting purposes. In population in India is stable, with an estimated 1988, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 1 estimated the blackbuck population to be 21,232 in the old floodplain areas of the Rapti River in (Willard et al. 1995). In Argentina, blackbuck Banke districts till late the 1960s (Pradhan et al. was first introduced in 1906 (Long 2003) and is 2001). After the eradication of malaria during now established over a large area. In Australia, the mid-1950s, forest and grassland in Terai blackbuck was first introduced into Western were cleared for cultivation and wildlife species Australia in the early 1900s (Allison 1970). By including blackbuck were poached. Blackbuck 1929, wild populations near Perth were described was considered extinct from Nepal in 1972, but as reaching pest proportions and were culled in September 1975, 9 individuals of unknown (Csurhes and Fisher 2010). sex were reported in Khairi-Panditpur, near the headquarters of Bardia district. The District Blackbuck primarily inhabits short grassland Forest Office, Bardia, and Bardia National Park and open woodland, and requires some cover. In deployed one to four security guards for the India, it is also found in wet coastal areas and conservation of blackbuck in this area in 1976 western deserts. More than 80 percent of the (DNPWC 1989). introduced blackbuck in Texas, United States inhabit open grassland and brush that provide An area of about 16 sq. km was declared as both forage and cover. Blackbuck prefers to Blackbuck Conservation Area (BCA) in 2009 graze selectively on short to mid-length grasses and fence was erected, aiming to avoid risk of but also browses shrub species, and eats crops. disease transmission from livestock as over Forage selection is primarily determined by food 1,000 livestock grazed every day in BCA. With availability. It lives either in groups (single the deployment of guards, the population in or mixed sex, numbering anywhere from 15 to Khairapur increased gradually from 9 individuals several thousand animals) or as single animals in 1975 to 300 individuals in 2013, but declined at densities of 0.5–3 per hectare. Blackbuck to 248 in 2015 due to an abnormally high flood are normally sedentary, but may travel long in the Babai River (Fig. 1). distances in search of food and water during the end of the dry season. During the rut the The BCA was established in the old floodplain males are strongly territorial, driving other created by the Babai River and is vulnerable to males from their territories. Further information flooding. Risk of inbreeding, food scarcity for the on life history, food, habitat requirements and increasing population and other environmental appearance are given in Annex 2. stresses such as prolonged drought are other serious threats to the isolated population in BCA. Habitat loss, fragmentation, degradation and Realizing this, the DNPWC recently translocated human-blackbuck conflict are the key threats some individuals with an aim to create a new to the species. Climate induced disasters such viable breeding population in the species’ as flood and drought are also perceived as former range in SWR. A total of 28 animals have major threats. The high flood in Babai nearly been reintroduced in the Hirapur Phanta in the exterminated the source population in Khairapur reserve. Creation of separate populations is an in 2014, when 40 out of 300 individuals were important step in protecting Nepal’s blackbuck drowned. from stochastic and climate change-related extreme events. 1.2 Status of blackbuck in Nepal Blackbuck are also kept in two wildlife facilities: Blackbuck was once widely distributed across in the Central Zoo; and in an enclosure within the Terai region in Nepal. Scattered populations the premises of the Pashupati Development of blackbuck occurred in Kanchanpur, Bardia and Trust in Kathmandu. Twenty-five animals

2 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 Population trend of blackbuck in Blackbuck Conservation Area of Khairapur, Bardia, Nepal between 1975 and Figure 1 2015.

were translocated from the Central Zoo to in the new area, mainly due to predation and stock Pashupati in 2009. This number has now unsuitable habitat dominated by tall grass increased to more than 40. species (Pradhan et al. 2001).

1.3 Reintroduction efforts in Nepal The recent translocation to Hirapur Phanta in SWR was based on the recommendations of The blackbuck reintroduction effort in Nepal several feasibility studies, including Khanal dates back to 1977 when 8 blackbucks (5 males et al. (2002). A total of 28 blackbucks (22 and 3 females) were translocated for the first from Nepalgunj Mini Zoo and 6 from Central time from Khairapur to Baghaura Phanta in Zoo, Lalitpur) were reintroduced in SWR in Bardia National Park. This effort continued 2012 as part of a national effort to establish a until 1992. In 1987, a second attempt was made second viable population in Nepal (Table 1). by translocating 17 animals from Khairapur translocation program was supported by USAID followed by an additional 27 individuals from funded Hariyo Ban Program through the NTNC. the Central Zoo to Baghaura Phanta. However, Soon after translocation, the animals started to the translocated blackbuck could not survive breed and new births were observed.

Table 1: Date, source, age and sex composition of blackbuck reintroduced in SWR in 2012.

Source Date of Male Female Yearling Total Translocation Adult Sub-adult Adult Sub-adult Mini Zoo, Nepalgunj 2012.09.18 2 1 4 1 - 8 Mini Zoo, Nepalgunj 2012.09.20 - 3 8 3 - 14 Central Zoo 2012.10.01 3 - 2 - 1 6 Total 5 4 14 4 1 28

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 3 As of June 2015, the blackbuck population in part of SWR and lies about 1.5 km north of SWR comprised 35 individuals (15 males, 13 the Arjuni range post. Approximately 150 ha females and 7 yearlings) managed in a 17 ha of Hirapur Phanta was previously cultivated, enclosure (Fig. 2). and now the re-vegetated short grassland is dominated by Cynodon dactylon and Imperata Between 2012 and 2015 44 animals were born, cylindrica. Further information on the site is and 47 died in the enclosure. To expand the provided in table 2. The blackbuck enclosure lies genetic base, an additional 14 blackbucks (10 in the central part of the phanta (Fig. 3) with 95 female and 4 male) were translocated from BCA percent covered by grassland, 3 percent riverine to the enclosure in Hirapur Phanta in July, 2015. forest, 1 percent mango orchard and 1 percent With this restocking, the population of blackbuck in SWR reached 49 individuals. The intent is to wetland. Major plant species in the area are let the population increase to a minimum of 100 Shorea robusta, Dalbergia sissoo, Bombax ceiba, individuals before they are released into the Syzygium cumini, Syzygium operculatum, Mallotus open space in reserve. philippinensis and Lagerstroemia parviflora. The salient features of the blackbuck occupied area Hirapur Phanta is located in the northeastern (Table 4) are similar to those of the BCA.

Figure 2 Population trend of newly reintroduced blackbuck in Hirapur Phanta in SWR.

Table 2: Salient features of Hirapur Phanta in SWR

Attributes Hirapur Phanta Location 280 56’ 58.06” N 800 20’ 26.59”E ; North-East of SWR Enclosure area 17 ha Altitude 220 m asl Historical information Blackbuck in Shuklaphanta were reported until 1960s

4 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 Attributes Hirapur Phanta Vegetation Open meadow dominated by short grass species, mainly Cynodon dactylon and Imperata cylindrica. The area is surrounded by Shorea robusta (Sal) forest with other associated tree species including Terminalia spp. Availability of water sources Regular ground water supply; a recently dug pond provides adequate water Threats Predation may become a threat at the initial stage of release; disease transmission from domestic cattle Accessibility 1.5 km from road head; need to build an all-weather road Human pressure Intensive cattle grazing Possibility of habitat expansion Possible

Figure 3 Reintroduced blackbuck site in Hirapur Phanta, SWR

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 5 1.4 Challenges and threats for black- reproduction. The enclosure should be buck conservation in SWR enlarged to provide adequate space to the blackbuck. Currently, animals are given 1. Small and isolated population: The current supplementary food to supplement the population of blackbuck in SWR is small and nutritional requirements. This will be the population could crash at any time due continued until adequate grazing space is to stochastic events. Therefore, efforts to created. supplement with new individuals from the wild and captivity should be considered as 4. Climate induced hazards: Climate change a priority to increase the genetic viability of is advancing in Nepal, and is affecting the existing population. species distribution, habitats, phenology, reproduction, etc. Increased climate 2. Disease as unvaccinated livestock come variability could have direct implications for up to the enclosure: At present, Hirapur blackbuck survival: for example, more intense Phanta is grazed by over 500 cattle each day. precipitation could increase flooding risk Grazing also occurs near to the enclosure and animals in the enclosure might not be increasing the risk of disease transfer. able to escape. Increased drought periods Continuous grazing pressure combined with could increase fire risk in grasslands. Once other human activities like collection of released from the enclosure, animals might firewood and other products from the nearby move out of the reserve during times of forest pose a serious threat to the success hardship. Longer term changes in water of the reintroduced blackbuck population, and temperature could result in changes once they are released. Rinderpest and foot to grassland quality, or woody vegetation and mouth disease are among the most encroachment, hence affecting suitability common diseases in the area that can affect of habitat for blackbuck. both the livestock and blackbuck. Deaths of blackbuck in the enclosure from 2012 to 2015 have mainly been due to parasites 5. Low priority species: Despite the fact likely from the livestock. that blackbuck is categorized as critically endangered in Nepal, the species has gained 3. Availability of space to accommodate the minimum attention for its conservation. growing population: At present, blackbuck are kept in the 17 ha enclosure to protect 6. No conservation action plan for blackbuck: them from predation while building up a As the species has captured little attention wild population. The present space is not compared to flagship species like tiger, rhino adequate for males to establish enough and snow leopard, Nepal has never prepared territories, and as the population grows a national conservation action plan for overcrowding will lead to physiological blackbuck. This plan is a site specific plan and behavioral constraints, and reduced for SWR.

6 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 2

BLACKBUCK CONSERVATION ACTION PLAN

2.1 Guiding principles of the action occur only in BCA and SWR and the recovery plan process will require a long-term conservation vision for developing the SWR wild population, This Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for enhancing genetic diversity, and establishment of new subpopulations for long-term survival. recently translocated blackbuck in SWR follows The recovery process will require a science-based an adaptive management framework of setting approach and collaboration among stakeholders. goals and priorities, developing strategies, This viewpoint is reflected in the following taking action and measuring results, and general in-situ conservation principles. applying results for future management. 1. Maintain and restore healthy populations This action plan benefits from the views of a of blackbuck by adopting a science-based number of active conservation partners with approach: Science-based management of extensive field experience and also reflects the blackbuck will help ensure a healthy increase international conservation perspective. This of blackbuck populations, broadening their perspective is particularly germane to the plan genetic base and thus securing the viability since the remaining populations of blackbuck of small populations. This includes the

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 7 possibility of establishing another viable 4. Secure resources for blackbuck population elsewhere, e.g. in Parsa Wildlife management: Adequate funding resources Reserve. are crucial for long-term conservation of this species. In long run, SWR will 2. Ensure that the approach is climate-smart, incorporate blackbuck conservation in its building resilience and/or facilitating regular program. DNPWC will work with its adaptation to climate change: Taking into conservation partners to seek additional account observed climate changes and future funding and provide technical support. projections, assess climate vulnerability of blackbuck and the reserve, and mainstream 5. Increase local awareness on blackbuck resilience building and climate adaptation conservation: Under the action plan, a measures into management. This includes conservation awareness program will be flood and fire hazards both in the early developed and implemented targeting enclosure stage, and later after release into to CBOs, civil society, schools and other the reserve. It should also cover longer term relevant stakeholders through educational potential changes to grassland quality and materials and issue-related campaigns. extent as a result of climate change.

3. Foster commitment and facilitate local 2.2 Strategic approaches involvement in the implementation process by building capacity and • Build on and consolidate successful past strengthening community engagement: efforts and achievements. While implementing the action plan, it is a • Ensure evidence and science-based decision high priority to promote local involvement making. by providing opportunities for capacity enhancement, involvement in wildlife • Strengthen integrated management system management, and promotion of alternative combining habitat improvement, species livelihoods, especially in cases where enrichment and people participation. there is actual or potential conflict with blackbuck conservation. Every effort should • Develop community based human-blackbuck be made to support the involvement of local conflict management system. communities and stakeholders, addressing • Develop and enforce stringent protection their needs and concerns with support from measures mobilizing local community. national and international conservation partners. Blackbuck conservation can • Build capacity of local stakeholders. help promote ecotourism through transfer of conservation knowledge and other • Forge partnerships with private sector support to local communities, community and local community for eco-tourism based organizations (CBOs), tourism development. entrepreneurs/business community and • Develop effective and user-friendly database other stakeholders. management and monitoring systems.

8 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 3

VISION, GOAL, OBJECTIVES, OUTPUTS AND ACTIVITIES

3.1 Vision Objective 2: Manage habitat in SWR to support blackbuck population in the long term Genetically viable wild breeding population of blackbuck in SWR that plays a functional role in Objective 3: Strengthen community engagement the ecosystem contributes to the livelihood of for blackbuck conservation local people and makes a major contribution to the broader conservation of the species in Nepal Objective 4: Establish sustainable financing mechanism 3.2 Goal 3.4 Issues, strategies and activities Re–establish free roaming wild population of blackbuck in SWR Prominent issues, and strategies and activities to address the issues and achieve the objective 3.3 Objectives are as follows:

Objective 1: Manage blackbuck population for Objective 1: Manage blackbuck population for long term viability in SWR long term viability in SWR

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 9 Issues • Protect the blackbuck habitat from damaging human activities • Small population size and narrow genetic base Output 1.2 Research and monitoring undertaken • Knowledge gap on newly re-introduced to support management blackbuck population Activities • Inadequate space for growing number of animals • Conduct regular monitoring of blackbuck population including demographic • Inadequate veterinary facilities and services parameters and animal condition; and • Security of reintroduced population from social behavior in the enclosure poaching and predation • Establish and maintain database on population and habitat Strategy • Carry out genetic study of wild and 1. Ensure adequate breeding and foraging reintroduced population space by expanding existing enclosure • Conduct comparative study on ecology and 2. Closely monitor habitat condition and behavior of blackbuck of BCA and SWR manage scientifically • Seek opportunities to introduce additional 3. Improve veterinary services animals from different source populations 4. Ensure animal safety • Build institutional capacity for blackbuck 5. Ensure effective coordination among conservation stakeholders including private sector Output 1.3 Health of blackbuck maintained Output 1.1 Adequate space for reintroduced blackbuck provided Activities • Establish veterinary facilities and provide Activities regular veterinary services • Extend current 17 ha of enclosure to at least 40 ha and continue expansion to provide • Carry out periodic disease and parasite adequate breeding and foraging space for surveillance and monitor health conditions targeted 100 individuals before they are • Support regular vaccination of livestock in released to the open ground adjoining buffer zone • Undertake regular research and monitoring and explore possible area elsewhere in the Output 1.4 Safety of reintroduced blackbuck Terai Arc Landscape to establish third viable population ensured population Activities • Build genetic robustness: increase genetic diversity by seeking possibility • Undertake review of blackbuck anti- of reintroducing wild individuals from poaching activities, identify gaps and issues, elsewhere in the region and harmonize with SWR management

10 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 plan; prepare to adapt anti-poaching for Objective 2: Manage habitat in SWR to support blackbuck release blackbuck population in the long term

• Undertake regular monitoring and Issues maintenance of predator proof fence • Inadequate forage during the dry season • Establish watch tower for surveillance • Risk of further habitat deterioration and • Form, strengthen and mobilize community water scarcity during prolonged drought based anti-poaching units (CBAPUs) in the buffer zone (BZ) villages Strategy • Equip the anti-poaching units with field 1. Improve habitat quality through habitat gear and basic equipment (e.g. global management interventions and develop positioning systems (GPSs), cameras) mechanism for information sharing • Maintain locally-based management team 2. Use cutting-edge technology in habitat for the blackbuck conservation research and monitoring • Control stray dog population through sterilization of female dogs 3. Apply best available management tools for habitat management Output 1.5 Risk of climate induced hazards to blackbuck population reduced Output 2.1 Availability of quality food ensured throughout the year Activities Activities • Undertake climate vulnerability assessment for blackbuck and for SWR • Maintain short grassland through regular cutting, controlled burning and grazing • Identify feasible actions for resilience building and climate adaptation both • Create plantation of blackbuck preferred during enclosure period and after release tree and shrub species to provide forage and of blackbuck, and mainstream them into shade in the enclosure during hot and dry management season • Develop early warning systems and • Provide drinking water throughout the year contingency disaster plans as needed, for example for flooding and uncontrolled fire • Provide irrigation during the hot dry season • Provide shade in the expanded enclosure to promote grass growth

• Monitor changes in weather patterns and • Provide supplementary feed during stress the effects of climate change, and adapt period (dry and winter seasons) management practices as needed Output 2.2 Habitat conditions regularly studied • Develop local capacity to address climate and monitored change issues

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 11 Activities Output 3.1 Local stewardship on blackbuck conservation developed • Engage university graduates to undertake studies on habitat condition inside the Activities enclosure • Conduct blackbuck conservation awareness • Provide feedback to SWR management to activities (radio program, workshops, improve habitat quality based on research blackbuck festival, etc.) results • Document all invasive alien species and • Promote community based tourism in their impact on food availability the nearby village to accrue benefit from blackbuck conservation • Document all likely impacts of climate change on habitat and food availability, • Support community to mitigate potential especially floral composition human blackbuck conflict • Provide recommendations for sound habitat • Support alternative livelihood options management • Promote stall feeding and discourage livestock grazing within the SWR, to reduce Objective 3: Strengthen community grazing pressure and disease risk engagement for blackbuck conservation • Promote artificial insemination to enhance Issues value of livestock and reduce number of unproductive breed animals, and hence • Over grazing and regular interactions of increase household income from livestock cattle with blackbuck • Promote alternative energy (e.g. biogas, • Inadequate conservation awareness among improved cooking stoves) to reduce local communities firewood pressure and women’s work/time • High community dependency on reserve burden; biogas also brings other benefits resources Output 3.2 Community livelihoods improved • Widespread poverty and limited livelihood through alternative livelihood options options Activities Strategy • Promote diversified off-farm opportunities 1. Engage local communities in conservation through skill-based training, and on- through alternative livelihood options farm support (vegetable farming, poultry, 2. Develop alternative forest resources in riverbank vegetable farming, etc.) private and community lands • Promote community based tourism (home stay) in neighboring Simalphanta village

• Train community members in nature guiding, cooking, hospitality and house management

12 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 Objective 4: Establish sustainable financing • Seek funding opportunities with the private mechanism sector, based on saving an eye-catching and easily visible species from extinction in Issues Nepal; ‘adopt a blackbuck population’ Inadequate financial resources • Seek funding opportunities with potential national and international donors Strategy • Secure government funding by 1. Develope and implement mechanism to mainstreaming the action plan into the grow and sustain the fund regular plan and program of SWR 2. Foster coordination and collaboration with • Identify relevant institutions and develop potential conservation partners for resource mechanisms for effective collaboration leverage • Disseminate learning and the story of the reintroduction more widely Output 4.1 Financial resources for blackbuck conservation in SWR ensured • Develop proposals jointly with conservation partners to raise sufficient funds for the Activities implementation of the action plan • Explore funding opportunities through local • Create emergency fund for crisis government line agencies management

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 13 4

MONITORING PLAN LOGICAL FRAMEWORK

14 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 ASSUMPTIONS/RISKS No large-scale calamities and epidemics occur that the population cannot be recovered Secured funding Secured funding Secured funding MEANS OF VERIFICATION Regular monitoring report Restocking report, health status population size Total area of enclosed habitat Periodic reports Regular monitoring reports Restocking report, health status report CBAPU activity log Regular monitoring reports Area under enclosure INDICATORS Number of self sustaining individuals thriving in the area Broader genetic base and adaptable population Area allocated for blackbuck Number of wild population restocked Number of new generation (growth rate) Regular veterinary services Decrease in number of open grazing livestock Number of killing incidences Number of CBAPU mobilized Habitat allocated for the species OBJECTIVES Goal: Re-establish free roaming wild population of blackbuck in SWR Objective 1: Manage blackbuck population for long term viability in SWR Outputs Output 1.1: Adequate spaces for reintroduced blackbuck provided Activities Activity 1: Extend current 17 ha of enclosure to at least 40 Activity 2: Undertake regular research and monitoring Activity 3: Increase genetic diversity by seeking possibility of reintroducing wild individuals from elsewhere in the region Activity 4: Protect the blackbuck habitat from damaging human activities Table 3: Logical framework

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 15 ASSUMPTIONS/RISKS Secured funding No-large-scale calamities and epidemics occur Secured funding MEANS OF VERIFICATION Monitoring reports Database and generated reports Reports Number of new births and survival rate Veterinary service report Veterinary service report INDICATORS Knowledge produced Management interventions carried out based on the findings of research Strengthened capacity of institutions on blackbuck conservation Healthy new generations of the species Veterinary services provided Reduced in number of death due to diseases OBJECTIVES Output 1.2: Research and monitoring undertaken to support management Activities Activity 1: Conduct regular monitoring of blackbuck population Activity 2: Establish and maintain database on population habitat Activity 3: Carry out genetic study of wild and reintroduced population Activity 4: Conduct comparative study on ecology and behavior of blackbuck BCA SWR Activity 5: Seek opportunities to introduce additional animals from different source populations Activity 6: Build institutional capacity for blackbuck conservation Output 1.3: Health of blackbuck maintained Activities Activity 1: Establish veterinary facilities and provide regular services Activity 2: Carry out periodic disease surveillance and monitor health conditions Activity 3: Support regular vaccination of livestock in adjoining buffer zone

16 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 ASSUMPTIONS/RISKS Secured funding No-large-scale calamities; Secured funding an; prepare to adapt anti- MEANS OF VERIFICATION CBAPU activity log, SWR patrolling log Number of cases filed in SWR Vulnerability mapping report Prepared adaptation plan

INDICATORS Reduced number of killing incidences Regular monitoring carried out by strengthened CBAPU Vulnerability factors identified and incorporated in the management interventions Adaptation capacity of local communities strengthened OBJECTIVES Output 1.4: Safety of reintroduced blackbuck population ensured Activities Activity 1: Undertake review of blackbuck antipoaching activities, identify gaps and issues, harmonize with SWR management pl poaching for blackbuck release Activity 2: Undertake regular monitoring and maintenance of predator proof fence Activity 3: Establish watch tower for surveillance strengthen and mobilize community based anti-poaching units (CBAPUs) in the BZ villages Activity 4: Form, Activity 5: Equip the anti-poaching units with field gears and basic equipment (e.g. GPS, camera, etc.) Activity 6: Maintain locally-based management team for the blackbuck conservation Activity 7: Control stray dog population through sterilization of female dogs Output 1.5: Risk of climate induced hazards to blackbuck population reduced Activities Activity 1: Undertake climate vulnerability assessment for blackbuck and SWR Activity 2: Identify feasible actions for resilience building and climate adaptation Activity 3: Develop early warning systems and contingency disaster plans as needed Activity 4: Provide shade in the expanded enclosure Activity 5: Monitor changes in weather patterns and the effects of climate change, adapt management practices as needed Activity 6: Develop local capacity to address climate change issues

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 17 ASSUMPTIONS/RISKS No-large-scale calamities; Secured funding Secured funding Secured funding MEANS OF VERIFICATION Report generated from database, study reports (genetic study and nutritional ecology study) Study reports Number of invasive species identified Number of rescued animals INDICATORS Monitoring protocol and monitoring mechanism Database on population and habitat Habitat with good availability of food/ forage Availability of water throughout the year Health of individual blackbuck Increased percentage in food availability, reduction in area coverage by invasive plant species Reduced impact of climate change in habitat and food availability OBJECTIVES Objective 2: Manage habitat in SWR to support blackbuck population in the long term Outputs Output 2.1: Availability of quality food ensured throughout the year Activities Activity 1: Maintain short grassland through regular cutting, controlled burning and grazing Activity 2: Create plantation of blackbuck preferred tree and shrub species Activity 3: Provide drinking water throughout the year Activity 4: Provide irrigation during the hot dry season to promote grass growth Activity 5: Provide supplementary feed during stress period Output 2.2: Habitat conditions regularly studied and monitored Activities Activity 1: Engage university graduates to undertake studies on habitat condition inside the enclosure Activity 2: Provide feedback to SWR management improve habitat quality based on research results Activity 3: Document all invasive alien species and their impact on food availability Activity 4: Document all likely impacts of climate change on habitat and food availability, especially floral composition Activity 5: Provide recommendations for sound habitat management

18 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 ASSUMPTIONS/RISKS Secured funding Increased willingness of local people’s participation Secured funding Secured funding Increased willingness of local people’s involvement MEANS OF VERIFICATION Number of CBAPU formed and mobilized Number of local institutions involved in blackbuck conservation (buffer zone users committees, buffer zone user groups, buffer zone community forest users groups) Attendance sheet CBAPU activity log Number of HHs engaged in alternative livelihood options Number of visitors; number HHs involved in home stay INDICATORS Community perception towards blackbuck conservation Increased percentage of community participation on blackbuck conservation Community engagement in conservation works; number of individuals participated on conservation awareness activities; number of CBAPU formed and mobilized Percentage decrease in open grazing Community engaged in various livelihood options The site established as one of the potential eco-tourism site OBJECTIVES Objective 3: Strengthen community engagement for blackbuck conservation Outputs Output 3.1: Local stewardship on blackbuck conservation developed Activities Activity 1: Conduct blackbuck conservation awareness activities (radio program, workshop, festival, etc.) Activity 2: Promote community based tourism in the nearby village Activity 3: Support community to mitigate potential human blackbuck conflict Activity 4: Support alternative livelihood options Activity 5: Promote stall feeding and discourage livestock grazing within the SWR, to reduce pressure disease risk Activity 6: Promote artificial insemination to enhance value of livestock and reduce number unproductive breed animals Activity 7: Promote alternative energy (e.g. biogas, improved cooking stoves) Output 3.2: Community livelihood improved through alternative livelihood options

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 19 ASSUMPTIONS/RISKS Secured funding Secured funding Secured funding, government commitment for the conservation of blackbuck ion in MEANS OF VERIFICATION Financial reports Reports Donor agreement, financial and technical reports Annual plan/budget of SWR INDICATORS Secured financial sources Donors commitment for the conservation of blackbuck in SWR Conservation fund received by the conservation partners and national international donors Number of activities action plan implemented and achievement made Activities of the action plan incorporated in annual plan/budget of SWR OBJECTIVES Activities Activity 1: Promote diversified off-farm opportunities through skill-based training, and on-farm support Activity 2: Promote community based tourism (home stay) in neighboring Simalphanta village Activity 3: Train community members in nature guiding, cooking, hospitality and house management Objective 4: Establish sustainable financing mechanism Outputs Output 4.1: Financial resources for blackbuck conservation in SWR ensured Nepal; ‘adopt a blackbuck population’ Activity 3: Seek funding opportunities with potential national and international donors Activity 4: Secure government funding by mainstreaming the action plan into regular and program of SWR Activity 5: Identify relevant institutions and develop mechanisms for effective collaboration Activity 6: Disseminate learning and the story of reintroduction more widely Activity 7: Develop proposals jointly with conservation partners to raise sufficient funds for the implementation of action plan Activity 8: Create emergency fund for crisis management Activities Activity 1: Explore funding opportunities through local government line agencies Activity 2: Seek funding opportunities with the private sector, based on saving an eye-catching and easily visible species from extinct

20 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 5

IMPLEMENTATION

DNPWC will take a lead role in coordinating the also play important to address human blackbuck overall implementation of the action plan. The conflict to be occurred after the animals are key roles are to support, facilitate and identify released form the enclosure. priority research, conservation, recovery and monitoring projects and seek financial and Conservation partners (e.g. NTNC, World technical support for the implementation. Wildlife Fund (WWF), Zoological Society (ZSL) of London, USAID funded Hariyo Ban Program during its lifetime) will continue to support the SWR will be responsible for the overall implementation of the action plan financially implementation of this action plan. Chief and technically. Conservation Officer will serve as a focal person and Assistant Conservation Officer stationed at Research and academic institutions will Arjuni sector will serve as project manager. collaborate with SWR to conduct and disseminate research and monitoring related to blackbuck Communities will play important role to minimize translocation, status, and other areas mentioned the potential risk of poaching. Community will in this plan.

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 21 5.1 Human resources 5.2 Monitoring and evaluation

Department of National Parks and Wildlife DNPWC will monitor and evaluate the Conservation (DNPWC), Shuklaphanta Wildlife implementation of the action plan. Mid-term Reserve (SWR), National Trust for Nature review will be conducted during the third year Conservation (NTNC) and other conservation of implementation. Final review and updating partners will make every effort to mobilize of the plan will be done during the 5th year existing human resources for the implementation of implementation so that the new revised/ of this action plan. updated conservation action plan will be approved and ready to start by the end of this plan period.

Staffing DNPWC/SWR NTNC

Existing • Project Manager/Chief Conservation • Project Coordinator/Office In-charge, Officer Shuklaphanta Conservation Program • One Game Scout (SCP) • Two Junior Wildlife Technicians

Proposed • Chief Conservation Officer – focal • Project Coordinator/Office In-charge, SCP person • One Natural Resource Conservation • Assistant Conservation Officer – project Assistant manager • One Community Mobilizer • One Veterinary Assistant • Two Junior Wildlife Technicians • Two Game Scouts

22 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 BUDGET PLAN 6

6.1 Summary of the budget

Table 4: Summary of the estimated budget in NPR, 000

Estimated Cost (NPR in ,000) Objectives and Activities Total Year I Year II Year III Year IV Year V Goal: Re-establish free roaming wild population of blackbuck in SWR Objective 1: Manage blackbuck population for long term viability in SWR Output 1.1: Adequate spaces for reintroduced 3,800 4,000 1,250 100 300 9,450 blackbuck provided Output 1.2: Research and monitoring 480 980 500 400 300 2,660 undertaken to support management Output 1.3: Health of blackbuck maintained 300 670 350 225 400 1,945 Output 1.4: Safety of reintroduced blackbuck 560 975 805 870 1,270 4,480 population ensured Output 1.5: Risk of climate induced hazards to 200 900 200 500 - 1,800 blackbuck population reduced Subtotal of Objective 1 5,340 7,525 3,105 2,095 2,270 20,335 Objective 2: Manage habitat in SWR to support blackbuck population in the long term Output 2.1: Availability of quality food ensured 1,210 1,685 1,320 1,170 1,170 6,555 throughout the year Output 2.2: Habitat conditions regularly 115 25 265 25 315 745 studied and monitored Subtotal of Objective 2 1,325 1,710 1,585 1,195 1,485 7,300 Objective 3: Strengthen community engagement for blackbuck conservation Output 3.1: Local stewardship on blackbuck 725 1,925 1,200 1,350 1,050 6,250 conservation developed Output 3.2: Community livelihood improved 300 1,650 900 300 200 3,350 through alternative livelihood options Subtotal of Objective 3 1,025 3,575 2,100 1,650 1,250 9,600 Objective 4: Establish sustainable financing mechanism Output 4.1: Financial resources for blackbuck 75 525 325 975 975 2,875 conservation in SWR ensured Subtotal of Objective 4 75 525 325 975 975 2,875 Total Program Cost (A) 7,765 13,335 7,115 5,915 5,980 40,110 Administrative Cost (B) 2,290 2,527 2,798 3,082 3,440 14,137 GRAND TOTAL (A+B) 10,055 15,862 9,913 8,997 9,420 54,247

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 23 REFERENCES

Allison, C. 1970. Sporting Shooter 1970: 30–1, 70–1.

Chattopadhyay, B. and Bhattacharya, T. 1986. Basic diurnal activity pattern of blackbuck, Antilope cervicapra Linn. of Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary, West Bengal and its seasonal variation. J. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 83(3): 553-561.

Chauhan, N.P.S. and Singh, R. 1990. Crop damage by overabundant populations of nilgai and blackbuck in Haryana (India) and its management. In Proc. Fourteenth Vertebrate Pest Conference 1990, pp. 218–220.

Crandall, L.S. 1964. The management of wild mammals in captivity. University of Chicago Press, Chicago.

Csurhes, S. and Fisher, P. 2010. Pest animal risk assessment: blackbuck antelope Antilope cervicapra. The State of Queensland, Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, Australia.

DNPWC. 1989. Blackbuck Conservation Project. DNPWC, His Majesty’s Government, Nepal. In Khanal, P., Khanal, S. N., Jnawali, S. R. and Pathak, S. R. 2002. Study on the land use of proposed blackbuck conservation area, Khairapur, Bardia District and habitat options for translocation of blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) at Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve in Kanchanpur District, Nepal, by using GIS. In Proc. 23rd Asian Conference on Remote Sensing.

DNPWC. 2012. Annual Progress Report 2012. Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Babarmahal, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Jhala, Y.V. 1997. Seasonal effects on the nutritional ecology of blackbuck Antilope cervicapra WII, India. Applied Ecology 34: 1348-1358.

Jnawali, S.R., Baral, H.S., Lee, S., Acharya, K.P., Upadhyay, G.P., Pandey, M., Shrestha, R., Joshi, D., Lamichhane, B.R., Griffiths, J., Khatiwada, A.P., Subedi, N. and Amin, R. (compilers). 2011. The Status of Nepal Mammals: The National Red List Series. Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Khanal, P., Khanal, S.N., Jnawali, S.R. and Pathak, S.R. 2002. Study on the land use of proposed Blackbuck Conservation Area, Khairapur, Bardia District and habitat options for translocation of blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) at Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve in Kanchanpur District, Nepal, by using GIS. In Proc. 23rd Asian Conference on Remote Sensing.

Long, J.L. 2003. Introduced Mammals of the World: Their History, Distribution and Influence. CSIRO Publishing, Victoria, Australia.

Mallon, D.P. 2008. Antilope cervicapra. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2015.2. www.iucnredlist. org. Downloaded 15 July 2015.

Pradhan, N.M.B., Bhatta, S.R. and Jnawali, S.R. 2001. Blackbuck conservation in Nepal. A Report submitted to Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation. Babarmahal, Kathmandu. Nepal.

Ranjitsinh, M.K., 1989. The Indian Blackbuck. Natraj Publishers, Dehradun, India.

Saluja, G., Capoor, A., and Gupta, D. P. 2012. Studies on the feeding behaviour of Indian Blackbuck, Antilope cervicapra L. in semi-wild habitat of Sikandra at Agra, India. World J. Appl. Sci. Res. 2: 32-35.

Schaller G.B., 1967. The Deer and the Tiger: A Study of the Wildlife in India. The University of Chicago Press, Chicago, USA and London, UK.

Willard, S.T., Jeffery, M.S., Carroll, A., Ronald, M.S., Randel, D. and Welsh, T.H. 1995. In vitro cell culture and adrenocorticotropin secretion by Indian Blackbuck Antelope (Antilope cervicapra) anterior pituitary glands collected under field conditions. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 26: 252–259.

24 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 ANNEXES

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 25 Annex 1: Detailed budget

Estimated Cost (NPR in ,000) Objectives and Activities Total Year I Year II Year III Year IV Year V Goal: Re-establish free roaming wild population of blackbuck in SWR Objective 1: Manage blackbuck population for long term viability in SWR Outputs Output 1.1: Adequate spaces for reintroduced 3,800 4,000 1,250 100 300 9,450 blackbuck provided Activities Activity 1: Extend current 17 ha of enclosure to at 3,600 3,600 - - - 7,200 least 40 ha Activity 2: Undertake regular research and 200 - 250 - 300 750 monitoring Activity 3: Increase genetic diversity by seeking - 350 1,000 - - 1,350 possibility of reintroducing wild individuals from elsewhere in the region Activity 4: Protect the blackbuck habitat from 50 50 100 100 150 150 damaging human activities Output 1.2: Research and monitoring undertaken to 480 980 500 400 300 2,660 support management Activity 1: Conduct regular monitoring of blackbuck 100 100 150 150 200 700 population Activity 2: Establish and maintain database on 50 50 50 50 100 300 population and habitat Activity 3: Carry out genetic study of wild and - 750 - - - 750 reintroduced population Activity 4: Conduct comparative study on ecology 80 80 - - - 160 and behavior of blackbuck of BCA and SWR Activity 5: Seek opportunities to introduce additional - - - 200 - 200 animals from different source populations Activity 6: Build institutional capacity for blackbuck 250 - 300 - - 550 conservation Output 1.3: Health of blackbuck maintained 300 670 350 225 400 1,945 Activities Activity 1: Establish veterinary facilities and provide - 500 - - - 500 regular veterinary services Activity 2: Carry out periodic disease surveillance and 150 - 150 - 150 450 monitor health conditions Activity 3: Support regular vaccination of livestock in 150 170 200 225 250 995 adjoining buffer zone Output 1.4: Safety of reintroduced blackbuck 560 975 805 870 1,270 4,480 population ensured Activities Activity 1: Undertake review of blackbuck 50 - 50 - 50 150 antipoaching activities, identify gaps and issues, and harmonize with SWR management plan; prepare to adapt anti-poaching for blackbuck release

26 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 Estimated Cost (NPR in ,000) Objectives and Activities Total Year I Year II Year III Year IV Year V Activity 2: Undertake regular monitoring and 25 50 75 100 300 550 maintenance of predator proof fence Activity 3: Establish watch tower for surveillance - 350 - - - 350 Activity 4: Form, strengthen and mobilize community 60 90 120 150 170 590 based anti-poaching units (CBAPUs) in the BZ villages Activity 5: Equip the anti-poaching units with the 50 60 70 80 100 360 field gears and basic equipment (e.g. GPS, camera, etc.) Activity 6: Maintain locally-based management team 350 400 450 500 600 2,300 for the blackbuck conservation Activity 7: Control stray dog population through 25 25 40 40 50 180 sterilization of female dogs Output 1.5: Risk of climate induced hazards to 200 900 200 500 - 1,800 blackbuck population reduced Activities Activity 1: Undertake climate vulnerability 125 - - - - 125 assessment for blackbuck and for SWR Activity 2: Identify feasible actions for resilience 75 - - - - 75 building and climate adaptation Activity 3: Develop early warning systems and - 100 200 - - 300 contingency disaster plans as needed Activity 4: Provide shade in the expanded enclosure - 250 - - - 250 Activity 5: Monitor changes in weather patterns and - 50 - - - 50 the effects of climate change, and adapt management practices as needed Activity 6: Develop local capacity to address climate - 500 - 500 - 1,000 change issues Subtotal of Objective 1 5,340 7,525 3,105 2,095 2,270 20,335 Objective 2: Manage habitat in SWR to support blackbuck population in the long term Outputs Output 2.1: Availability of quality food ensured 1,210 1,685 1,320 1,170 1,170 6,555 throughout the year Activities Activity 1: Maintain short grassland through regular 850 850 950 950 950 4,550 cutting, controlled burning and grazing Activity 2: Create plantation of blackbuck preferred 150 - 150 - - 300 tree and shrub species Activity 3: Provide drinking water throughout the 50 50 50 50 50 250 year Activity 4: Provide irrigation during the hot dry 75 700 75 75 75 1,000 season to promote grass growth Activity 5: Provide supplementary feed during stress 85 85 95 95 95 455 period

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 27 Estimated Cost (NPR in ,000) Objectives and Activities Total Year I Year II Year III Year IV Year V Output 2.2: Habitat conditions regularly studied and 115 25 265 25 315 745 monitored Activities Activity 1: Engage university graduates to undertake 40 - 40 - 40 120 studies on habitat condition inside the enclosure Activity 2: Provide feedback to SWR management to 25 25 25 25 25 125 improve habitat quality based on research results Activity 3: Document all invasive alien species and 50 - 50 - 50 150 their impact on food availability Activity 4: Document all likely impacts of climate - - 150 - - 150 change on habitat and food availability, especially floral composition Activity 5: Provide recommendations for sound - - - - 200 200 habitat management Subtotal of Objective 2 1,325 1,710 1,585 1,195 1,485 7,225 Objective 3: Strengthen community engagement for blackbuck conservation Outputs Output 3.1: Local stewardship on blackbuck 725 1,925 1,200 1,350 1,050 6,250 conservation developed Activities Activity 1: Conduct blackbuck conservation 150 200 250 300 350 1,250 awareness activities (radio program, workshop, blackbuck festival, etc.) Activity 2: Promote community based tourism in the - 800 - 150 - 950 nearby village Activity 3: Support community to mitigate potential 25 25 50 50 50 200 human blackbuck conflict Activity 4: Support alternative livelihood options - 250 250 300 300 1,100 Activity 5: Promote stall feeding and discourage 250 250 250 250 250 1,250 livestock grazing within the SWR, to reduce grazing pressure and disease risk Activity 6: Promote artificial insemination to 100 100 100 100 - 400 enhance value of livestock and reduce number of unproductive breed animals Activity 7: Promote alternative energy (e.g. biogas, 200 300 300 200 100 1,100 improved cooking stoves) Output 3.2: Community livelihood improved through 300 1,650 900 300 200 3,350 alternative livelihood options Activities Activity 1: Promote diversified off-farm opportunities 200 700 800 200 200 2,100 through skill-based training, and on-farm support Activity 2: Promote community based tourism (home - 750 - - - 750 stay) in neighboring Simalphanta village Activity 3: Train community members in nature 100 200 100 100 - 500 guiding, cooking, hospitality and house management Subtotal of Objective 3 1,025 3,575 2,100 1,650 1,250 9,600

28 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 Estimated Cost (NPR in ,000) Objectives and Activities Total Year I Year II Year III Year IV Year V Objective 4: Establish sustainable financing mechanism Outputs Output 4.1: Financial resources for blackbuck 75 525 325 975 975 2,875 conservation in SWR ensured Activities Activity 1: Explore funding opportunities through 50 50 50 50 50 250 local government line agencies Activity 2: Seek funding opportunities with the - 100 - 100 - 200 private sector, based on saving an eye-catching and easily visible species from extinction in Nepal; ‘adopt a blackbuck population’ Activity 3: Seek funding opportunities with potential - 350 - - - 350 national and international donors Activity 4: Secure government funding by 25 25 25 25 25 125 mainstreaming the action plan into the regular plan and program of SWR Activity 5: Identify relevant institutions and develop ------mechanisms for effective collaboration Activity 6: Disseminate learning and the story of the - - - - 550 550 reintroduction more widely Activity 7: Develop proposals jointly with - - 250 - 350 600 conservation partners to raise sufficient funds for the implementation of the action plan Activity 8: Create emergency fund for crisis - - - 800 - 800 management Subtotal of Objective 4 75 525 325 975 975 2,875 Total Program Cost (A) 7,765 13,335 7,115 5,915 5,980 40,110 Administrative Cost (B) Remuneration 2,015 2,217 2,438 2,682 2,950 12,302 Regular maintenance of the fence 125 135 145 175 225 805 Other direct cost 150 175 215 225 265 1,030 Subtotal of Administrative Cost 2,290 2,527 2,798 3,082 3,440 14,137 GRAND TOTAL (A+B) 10,055 15,862 9,913 8,997 9,420 54,247

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 29 Annex 2: Detailed species description

The Indian blackbuck, Antilope cervicapra (Linn. 1758) is the only species in its genus, and belongs to the subfamily Antilopinae (‘true antelopes’) within the family Bovidae. This antelope is endemic to the Indian subcontinent. There are four sub-species – Antilope cervicapra cervicapra, Antilope cervicapra rajputanae, Antilope cervicapra centralis and Antilope cervicapra rupicapra. Blackbuck is regarded as the most graceful and majestic of all Asiatic antelopes (Saluja et al. 2012). The species is designated as near threatened (NT) as per the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and also listed in CITES Appendix III (Nepal) (DNPWC 2012; Mallon 2008). Distribution

Blackbuck formerly occurred across almost all the Indian subcontinent. Its range decreased sharply during the 20th century; it is now extinct in Bangladesh and Pakistan, and in Nepal there is only a single small population of less than 300 individuals in the wild, where it is under constant threat of extinction. Attempted reintroductions have taken place in Nepal and Pakistan. Appearance

Blackbuck is one of the few antelope species that exhibit pronounced sexual dimorphism. The male is particularly attractive and gracefully built with a pair of divergent, spiraling horns, which are usually less than 50 cm long but can reach 79 cm. In the yearling buck the horns are straight; in the second year of life, a large open spiral develops. The full number of spiral twists is thought to be attained around the end of the third year, along with the dark coat. Females and juveniles are yellowish-fawn on the back and head, and are generally without horns. Both sexes have white under-parts, including the insides of the legs and lower chest, as well as a white ring surrounding the eye and a white chin. The name ‘blackbuck’ is a reference to the dark color of the males. The male gradually darkens with age, from tan to deep brown or black, beginning at two years of age. It has a slender build and short tail. Morphological features of blackbuck

Body length 100–150 cm Shoulder height 60–85 cm Tail length 10–17 cm Horn length (male) 35–79 cm Body weight 19.5–56.7 kg (male), 19–33 kg (female) Coat color (male) Dark head and back with white underside Dark head and back with white underside Yellow to fawn head and back with white underside Behavior and life history

Blackbuck is mainly diurnal, but sometimes nocturnal. It lives either in groups (single or mixed sex, numbering anywhere from 15 to several thousand animals) or as single animals at densities of 0.5–3 per hectare. In its native range, mating can occur throughout the year, but tends to be concentrated in two periods—March to May and August to October (Schaller 1967). During these times, the male becomes territorial and maintains a territory of between 1 and 100 ha. It marks its territory by depositing feces in selected areas. The male becomes extremely aggressive during the rut, driving all other males from the territory. Females are sexually mature at approximately 15 months. Gestation is 5–6 months and females produce an average of 1.9 offspring per year (normally a single offspring is born at a time (Crandall 1964), rarely two). Blackbuck fawns are born throughout the year, with a high birth rate (13 percent of the total) in the months of January- April. The young are able to run soon after birth and are weaned at around 2 months. Blackbuck can live up to 18 years in the wild.

30 Site Specific Conservation Action Plan for Blackbuck | 2016-2020 Habitat

Blackbuck prefer open grassland with intermittent tall grass or bushes (for delivery, fawn nursing and protection against predators as well as rain and wind). However, it can utilize a range of habitats including tropical and subtropical woodland, dry deciduous forest, open plains (grassland), riverbanks and semi-desert habitats; it also forages in crop land and pasture land. Food

Blackbuck is a diurnal feeder (Schaller 1967), and is mainly a grazer; browsing is rare (Ranjitsinh 1989). Its diet includes fresh tender leaves of browse species, soft grasses, crops, forbs, cereals, vegetables and leaves of shrubs and trees (Jhala 1997). It is reported to nibble mainly the young shoots of various cereal and pulse crops but damage is not great (Chauhan and Singh 1990). It prefers Dubo (Cynodon dactylon) and other grasses, forbs and tree species and supplements this diet with cereal crops when available. Females graze slightly longer than males throughout the year; males spend less time feeding, particularly in the rutting season (Saluja et al. 2012; Chattopadhyay and Bhattacharya 1986). The blackbuck is mainly sedentary, but in summer it may move long distances in search of water and forage. With extremely low intake of forage in summer due to lack of young grass at the end of dry season, the blackbuck faces a severe energy and protein deficit and mainly relies on body reserves; thus the body condition declines in early summer and improves in the monsoon and winter months (Jhala 1997). Blackbuck does not require water regularly, though water consumption becomes essential occasionally when moisture content of the forage is very low (Schaller 1967; Ranjitsinh 1989). Plant species preferred by blackbuck

Grasses, herbs, forbs Trees Cynodon dactylon, Dubo Berries of Zizyphus jujube Vetiveria zizanioides, Jove Legumes of Prosopis cineraria Convolvulus numularis, Thulo dudhiya Leaves of Acacia nilotica Saccharum spontaneum, Kans grass Leaves of Dalbergia sissoo Sporobolus diander, Jarakus Imperata cylindrica, Siru Bothriochloa ischaemum, Dubei bansoo Cephalotus spp., Motheri Agricultural crops as diet supplement Wheat (Triticum spp.) Mustard (Brassica spp.) Gram (Cicer spp.) Lentil (Caganusja, Phaseolus spp.) Corn (Zea mays) Peanut (Arachis spp.)

Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal 31

• of]hgfdf b}lgs hLjgofkgsf ljljw kIfx¿ h:t}M s[lif, • of]hgfdf b}lgs hLjgofkgsf ljljw kIfx¿ h:t}M s[lif, hn;|f]t tyf pmhf{, jg tyf h}ljs ljljwtf, hn pTkGg hn;|f]t tyf pmhf{, jg tyf h}ljs ljljwtf, hn pTkGg k|sf]k, dfgj :jf:Yo, k"jf{wf/ ljsf; cflbnfO{ ;d]6\g] k|of; k|sf]k, dfgj :jf:Yo, k"jf{wf/ ljsf; cflbnfO{ ;d]6\g] k|of; ul/Psf] 5 . ul/Psf]• of]hgfdf5 . b}lgs hLjgofkgsf ljljw kIfx¿ h:t}M s[lif, • :yfgLo >d, ;Lk, 1fg, k|ljlw / ;|f]t ;fwgx¿sf] e/k"/ • :yfgLo hn;|f]t>d, ;Lk, tyf 1fg,pmhf{, k|ljlwjg tyf/ ;|f]th}ljs ;fwgx¿sf] ljljwtf, hne/k"/ pTkGg k|of]u ub}{ hnjfo' kl/jt{gsf c;/x¿;Fu h'Wg] :yfgLo / k|of]u ub}{k|sf]k, hnjfo' dfgj kl/jt{gsf:jf:Yo, k"jf{wf/ c;/x¿;Fu ljsf; cflbnfO{h'Wg] :yfgLo ;d]6\g] /k|of; k/Dk/fut cEof;nfO{ cfTd;ft ul/Psf] 5 . k/Dk/futul/Psf] cEof;nfO{ 5 . cfTd;ft ul/Psf] 5 . • • ;/sf/L,;/sf/L,• :yfgLo u}/;/sf/Lu}/;/sf/L >d, ;Lk,tyftyf 1fg, lghLIf]q;Fusf]lghLIf]q;Fusf] k|ljlw / ;|f]t ;fem]bf/LnfO{;fwgx¿sf];fem]bf/LnfO{ e/k"/ k|fyldstfk|fyldstf k|of]ulbOPsf] lbOPsf] ub}{ 5 hnjfo' 5. . kl/jt{gsf c;/x¿;Fu h'Wg] :yfgLo / k/Dk/fut cEof;nfO{ cfTd;ft ul/Psf] 5 . • • ;fdflhs;fdflhs k/LIf0fsf k/LIf0fsf dfWodaf6 dfWodaf6 cfly{s cfly{s kf/blz{tf, kf/blz{tf, ;dfj]zL ;dfj]zL / / ;xeflutfd"ns• ;/sf/L, tj/af6 u}/;/sf/L of]hgf tyfsfof{Gjog lghLIf]q;Fusf] ePsf] ;'lglZrt ;fem]bf/LnfO{ ;xeflutfd"nsk|fyldstf tj/af6 lbOPsf] of]hgf5 . sfof{Gjog ePsf] ;'lglZrt ul/g]5ul/g]5 . . sfof{Gjog k|lqmof • ;fdflhs k/LIf0fsf dfWodaf6 cfly{s kf/blz{tf, ;dfj]zL / sfof{Gjog k|lqmof cg's"ng lqmofsnfkx¿;xeflutfd"ns tj/af6 of]hgf sfof{Gjog ePsf] ;'lglZrt cg's"ng lqmofsnfkx¿ of]hgfsf]of]hgfsf] sfof{Gjogsfsfof{Gjogsf nflunflu tnsf]tnsf] lrqdflrqdf b]vfOPsf]b]vfOPsf] ljlwljlw ul/g]5 . cjnDjgsfof{Gjog ul/g]5 .k|lqmof ljleGgljleGg r/0fsf] r/0fsf] ;fd'bflos ;fd'bflos 5nkmnaf6 5nkmnaf6 pknAw pknAw tYofª\ssf tYofª\ssf cfwf/df cfwf/df cjnDjg ul/g]5 . k|sf]ksf] kl/jlt{tcg's"ng kfqf] lqmofsnfkx¿ cg';f/ :yfgLo cg's"ng sfo{of]hgfsf] != k|sf]ksf] kl/jlt{t kfqf] cg';f/ :yfgLo cg's"ng sfo{of]hgfsf] of]hgfsf] sfof{Gjogsf nflu!= tnsf] lrqdf b]vfOPsf] ljlw /fli6«o ;+/rgfn] lglb{i6 u/]sf ljlw cg'¿k ;ª\s6fkGg ;d'bfo ;r]tLs/0f /fli6«o ;+/rgfn]ljleGg r/0fsf] lglb{i6 ;fd'bflos u/]sf ljlw5nkmnaf6 cg'¿k pknAw ;ª\s6fkGg tYofª\ssf ;d'bfo cfwf/df cjnDjg ul/g]5 . ;r]tLs/0f • of]hgfdf b}lgs hLjgofkgsf ljljw kIfx¿ h:t}M&= x/]s s[lif, txdf @= hf]lvd / 3/w'/Lsf] klxrfg u/L cg's"ngsf ljsNkx¿sf] ljZn]if0f ub}{ &= x/]s txdf @= hf]lvd / 3/w'/Lsf]k|sf]ksf] klxrfg kl/jlt{t u/L kfqf]cg's"ngsf cg';f/ ljsNkx¿sf]:yfgLo hn;|f]tcg's"ng ljZn]if0ftyf pmhf{,sfo{of]hgfsf] jgub}{ tyf h}ljs ljljwtf, hnk|fKt pTkGg k|ultsf] / cg's"ng • of]hgfdf b}lgsk|sf]k, hLjgofkgsfdfgj :jf:Yo, ljljwk"jf{wf/ kIfx¿ ljsf; h:t}McflbnfO{ s[lif, ;d]6\g] k|fKt k|of; k|ultsf] != / cg's"ng hnjfo' kl/jt{gsf sf/0fn] l;lh{t hf]lvdx¿nfO{ Go"gLs/0f laZn]if0f ljZn]if0f hnjfo' /fli6«okl/jt{gsf ;+/rgfn] sf/0fn] lglb{i6 l;lh{tu/]sf ljlwhn;|f]thf]lvdx¿nfO{ cg'¿k tyful/Psf] pmhf{, ;ª\s6fkGg 5 jg . Go"gLs/0f tyf h}ljs ;d'bfo ljljwtf, hn pTkGg laZn]if0f ;r]tLs/0f ljZn]if0f ug]{ sfo{of]hgfnfO{ k|fyldstf lbOPsf] k|sf]k,5 dfgj. k|sf]k :jf:Yo, k"jf{wf/cfpg'sf] ljsf; cflbnfO{ ;d]6\g] k|of; ug]{ sfo{of]hgfnfO{/ 3/w'/Lsf] klxrfgk|fyldstf u/L cg's"ngsflbOPsf] 5 ljsNkx¿sf] • .:yfgLo k|sf]k >d, ;Lk,cfpg'sf]ljZn]if0f 1fg, k|ljlw ub}{ / ;|f]t ;fwgx¿sf] e/k"/&= x/]s txdf @= hf]lvd ul/Psf] 5 . sf/0fsf/0f klxrfg klxrfghnjfo' u/L u/L kl/jt{gsfcg's"ngsf cg's"ngsf sf/0fn]of]hgf of]hgf tyfl;lh{t tyf lqmofsnfkx¿ lqmofsnfkx¿hf]lvdx¿nfO{k|of]u ub}{ hnjfo' 5gf}6 5gf}6Go"gLs/0fkl/jt{gsf c;/x¿;Fu h'Wg] :yfgLo k|fKt/ k|ultsf] cg's"ng of]hgf / cg's"ng ul/Psf 5g\ . k~rjifL{o of]hgfdf tkl;n• :yfgLo adf]lhdsf >d,k/Dk/fut ;Lk, 1fg, cEof;nfO{ hf]lvdk|ljlw cfTd;ft/ ;|f]t ;fwgx¿sf]ul/Psf] 5 . e/k"/ laZn]if0f cg's"ng of]hgf ljZn]if0f ul/Psf ug]{5g\ sfo{of]hgfnfO{. k~rjifL{o of]hgfdfk|fyldstf tkl;n lbOPsf]k|of]u ub}{ • adf]lhdsf hnjfo';/sf/L,5 . kl/jt{gsfk|sf]ku}/;/sf/L hf]lvd c;/x¿;Fu cfpg'sf]tyf lghLIf]q;Fusf] h'Wg] :yfgLo^= cg's"ng/;fem]bf/LnfO{ sfof{Gjog k|lqmof #= cg's"ngsf k/Dk/fut cEof;nfO{ cfTd;ft ul/Psf] 5 . ^= cg's"ng sfof{Gjog k|lqmof #= cg's"ngsf If]qdf cg's"ng of]hgf / lqmofsnfkx¿ lgwf{/0fk|fyldstf ul/Psf] lbOPsf] 5 5. . of]hgf pkfox¿sf] If]qdf cg's"ngsf/0f klxrfg of]hgf u/L / cg's"ngsflqmofsnfkx¿ of]hgf lgwf{/0f tyf lqmofsnfkx¿ul/Psf] 5 . 5gf}6 of]hgf cg's"ng of]hgf pkfox¿sf] • ;/sf/L, u}/;/sf/L tyf lghLIf]q;Fusf] ;fem]bf/LnfO{sfof{Gjog k|fyldsLs/0f ul/Psf 5g\ . k~rjifL{o of]hgfdfk|fyldstf tkl;n• lbOPsf];fdflhs adf]lhdsf 5 k/LIf0fsf. dfWodaf6 hf]lvd cfly{s kf/blz{tf,sfof{Gjog ;dfj]zL / k|fyldsLs/0f ;xeflutfd"ns tj/af6 of]hgf sfof{Gjog ePsf] ^=;'lglZrt cg's"ng sfof{Gjog k|lqmof #= cg's"ngsf Hf]lvdsf]Hf]lvdsf] If]qdfIf]q If]q cg's"ngk|sf]k÷hf]lvdk|sf]k÷hf]lvd of]hgf / lqmofsnfkx¿cg's"ngsfcg's"ngsf• ;fdflhs lqmofsnfkx k/LIf0fsf ul/g]5lqmofsnfkxlgwf{/0f . dfWodaf6 ul/Psf]¿ ¿ cfly{s 5 kf/blz{tf, . ;dfj]zL / of]hgf pkfox¿sf] ;xeflutfd"ns tj/af6 of]hgf sfof{Gjog ePsf] ;'lglZrt sfof{Gjog sfof{Gjog k|lqmof k|fyldsLs/0f s[lif tyf vfB 36\bf] s[lif hLljsf]kfh{g sfo{qmd, s[lif %= %=cg's"ng cg's"ng s[lif tyf vfB 36\bf] s[lif hLljsf]kfh{gul/g]5 .cg's"ngsfo{qmd, lqmofsnfkx¿ s[lif of]hgf $= $=cg's"ng cg's"ng ;'/Iff Hf]lvdsf]pTkfbg If]q k|sf]k÷hf]lvdafnLdf ljljwLs/0f,cg's"ngsf ;'Svf lqmofsnfkx afnLsf] ¿ sfof{Gjogof]hgfsf] of]hgfk|lqmof sfof{Gjogsf nfluof]hgf tnsf] lgdf{0f lrqdf b]vfOPsf] ljlw ;'/Iff pTkfbg afnLdf ljljwLs/0f, ;'Svf afnLsf] ;dfof]hg;dfof]hgcjnDjg ul/g]5 . of]hgf lgdf{0f s[lif tyf vfB 36\bf] s[lifk|of]u, cg's"ngh}ljshLljsf]kfh{g ljleGglqmofsnfkx¿ljiffbLsf] r/0fsf]sfo{qmd, ;fd'bflosk|of]u, 5nkmnaf6 s[lif pknAw tYofª\ssf cfwf/dfof]hgfsf] sfof{Gjogsf%= cg's"ng nflu tnsf] lrqdf b]vfOPsf] ljlw k|of]u, h}ljsk|sf]ksf] ljiffbLsf] kl/jlt{t kfqf]k|of]u, cg';f/ :yfgLo cg's"ng sfo{of]hgfsf] of]hgf $= cg's"ng ;'/Iff pTkfbg afnLdf ljljwLs/0f, ;'Svf afnLsf] cjnDjg ul/g]5 . !=of]hgf lgdf{0f ldrfxfldrfxf ljleGg k|hfltsf]k|hfltsf] r/0fsf]/fli6«o ;fd'bflos pGd"ng, ;+/rgfn]pGd"ng, 5nkmnaf6 lglb{i6 s[ifss[ifs u/]sfpknAw ljlw tYofª\ssf cg'¿k ;ª\s6fkGgcfwf/df ;d'bfo ;dfof]hg ;r]tLs/0f k|sf]ksf] kl/jlt{t kfqf] cg';f/ :yfgLo cg's"ng sfo{of]hgfsf] tflnd, j]df};dLk|of]u, /v]tL, h}ljs3/w'/Lsf] af]l/ª\ klxrfgljiffbLsf] h8fg u/L cg's"ngsfk|of]u, ljsNkx¿sf]sf]ifsf] ljZn]if0fJoj:yf ub}{ &= x/]s txdf != @= hf]lvd tflnd,/fli6«o j]df};dL ;+/rgfn] v]tL, lglb{i6 af]l/ª\ u/]sf ljlwh8fg cg'¿k ;ª\s6fkGgsf]ifsf] ;d'bfo Joj:yf k|fKt k|ultsf] ;r]tLs/0f / cg's"ng ldrfxf hnjfo'k|hfltsf] kl/jt{gsf pGd"ng, sf/0fn] s[ifsl;lh{t hf]lvdx¿nfO{ Go"gLs/0f laZn]if0f ljZn]if0f jg tyf h}ljs s[lif tyf ldl>t /k|hflt 3/w'/Lsf] 3f ug]{klxrfg;“ sfo{of]hgfnfO{tyf u/L cg's"ngsfj[If/f]k0f, k|fyldstf ljsNkx¿sf] lbOPsf] ljZn]if0f 5 . k|sf]kub}{ cfpg'sf] &= x/]s txdf @= hf]lvd jg tyf h}ljs s[lif tyf ldl>thnjfo' tflnd,k|hflt kl/jt{gsf j]df};dL3f;“ sf/0fn] tyfv]tL, j[If/f]k0f,l;lh{taf]l/ª\ hf]lvdx¿nfO{h8fg of]hgf Go"gLs/0fsf]ifsf] sfof{Gjogsf Joj:yfk|fKt k|ultsf]nflu 5'§} sf]if :yfkgf/ cg's"ng ul/g] 5 . ;]jf ljljwtf jg ;|f]tdf sf/0f klxrfg u/L cg's"ngsf of]hgf tyfof]hgf lqmofsnfkx¿ sfof{Gjogsf 5gf}6 laZn]if0f nflu 5'§} sf]ifcg's"ng :yfkgf of]hgfljZn]if0f ul/g] 5 . ;]jf ljljwtf jg ;|f]tdf ldrfxfldrfxf ug]{k|hflt k|hfltsfo{of]hgfnfO{ ul/Psf pGd"ng,pGd"ng, 5g\k|fyldstf . clUg/]vfk~rjifL{oclUg/]vf lbOPsf] of]hgfdf 5 . tkl;nk|sf]k cfpg'sf]adf]lhdsf hf]lvd jg tyf h}ljs s[lif tyf “ ^= cg's"ng #= cg's"ngsf ldrfxf jg:klt sf/0fldl>t klxrfg k|hflt u/L cg's"ngsf 3f; tyf of]hgf j[If/f]k0f, tyf lqmofsnfkx¿ k|bfosk|bfos 5gf}6 lgsfoaf6 lgsfoaf6 sf]if sf]if ;+sng ;+sng u/Lu/Lsfof{Gjog To;sf]To;sf] k|lqmof ;~rfngsf;~rfngsf nflunflu ldrfxf jg:klt lgdf{0f,lgdf{0f, xf]l8{ª\ xf]l8{ª\ af]8{ If]qdfaf]8{ lgdf{0f, cg's"nglgdf{0f, cfuf]hGo of]hgfcfuf]hGo / lqmofsnfkx¿ lgwf{/0fof]hgf ul/Psf] 5sfof{Gjogsf . of]hgfnflu cg's"ng 5'§} of]hgf sf]if :yfkgf ul/g]pkfox¿sf] 5 . ;]jf ljljwtf jg ;|f]tdf ul/Psfldrfxf 5g\ k|hflt. k~rjifL{o pGd"ng, of]hgfdf clUg/]vftkl;n adf]lhdsf ;fd'bflos hf]lvd sf]if ;~rfngsfof{Gjog sfo{ljlw @)^( th'{df ul/Psf]k|fyldsLs/0f 5 . k|hfltsf]k|hfltsf] kbfy{ lgif]w, hgr]tgf cleofg, ;fd'bflosk|bfos sf]iflgsfoaf6^= cg's"ng;~rfng sf]if sfo{ljlwsfof{Gjog;+sng k|lqmof u/L@)^( To;sf] th'{df#= cg's"ngsf ;~rfngsf ul/Psf] 5 nflu . ldrfxf jg:kltkbfy{ If]qdflgdf{0f,lgif]w, cg's"ng xf]l8{ª\Hf]lvdsf]hgr]tgf of]hgf af]8{ If]q / lqmofsnfkx¿lgdf{0f,k|sf]k÷hf]lvdcleofg, cfuf]hGo lgwf{/0f cg's"ngsf ul/Psf] lqmofsnfkx5 . ¿ of]hgf pkfox¿sf] sfof{Gjog k|fyldsLs/0f cltqmd0f ;lqmo jg Joj:yfkg cEof; ;fd'bflos sf]if ;~rfng sfo{ljlw%= cg's"ng @)^( th'{df ul/Psf] 5 . cltqmd0fk|hfltsf] ;lqmo jg Joj:yfkgs[lif tyf vfBcEof; 36\bf] s[lif hLljsf]kfh{g sfo{qmd, s[lif $= cg's"ng kbfy{Hf]lvdsf] If]qlgif]w,k|sf]k÷hf]lvd hgr]tgf cg's"ngsfcleofg, lqmofsnfkx ¿ of]hgf ;'/Iff pTkfbg afnLdf cg'udgljljwLs/0f,cg'udg ;'Svf tyf afnLsf]tyf d"Nofª\sg d"Nofª\sg ;dfof]hg of]hgf lgdf{0f dfgjdfgj :jf:Yo :jf:Yo lau|bf]lau|bf] dfgj dfgjcltqmd0f em'nem'n k|of]u, k|of]u,s[lif;lqmo tyfzf}rfno, vfB zf}rfno,jg 36\bf]Joj:yfkg afof]Uof; s[lifafof]Uof; cEof;hLljsf]kfh{g / / k|of]u,sfo{qmd, h}ljs ljiffbLsf]s[lif k|of]u, %= cg's"ng of]hgf $= cg's"ng ;'/Iff pTkfbg afnLdf ljljwLs/0f, ;'Svf afnLsf]cg'udg tyf d"Nofª\sg of]hgf lgdf{0f dfgj :jf:Yo:jf:Yo:jf:Yo lau|bf] dfgj;'wfl/Psf];'wfl/Psf] em'nr'Nxf] r'Nxf]k|of]u, lgdf{0f lgdf{0f zf}rfno, tyf tyf k|of]u k|of]uafof]Uof; ldrfxf/ k|hfltsf] pGd"ng, s[ifs ;dfof]hg k|of]u, h}ljstflnd, ljiffbLsf] of]hgfsf]j]df};dLof]hgfsf] v]tL,k|of]u, af]l/ª\ lgoldt lgoldth8fg cg'udg cg'udgsf]ifsf] Joj:yftyf tyf d"Nofª\sgsf d"Nofª\sgsf nflu nflu ;/f]sf/jfnf ;/f]sf/jfnf hnjfo'hGo af9L, s6fg:jf:Yo h}ljs t6jGw;'wfl/Psf] lgdf{0f, r'Nxf] ljkb\lgdf{0f /fxtldrfxftyf k|of]uk|hfltsf] pGd"ng, s[ifs hnjfo'hGo af9L, s6fg h}ljs t6jGw jglgdf{0f, tyf h}ljs ljkb\s[lif tyf/fxt ldl>t k|hflt 3fof]hgfsf];“ tyf j[If/f]k0f,sf]ifsf] lgoldt Joj:yfof]hgf cg'udg sfof{Gjogsf tyf nflud"Nofª\sgsf 5'§} sf]if :yfkgf nflu ul/g] ;/f]sf/jfnf 5 . ;]jf ljljwtf jg ;|f]tdftflnd, j]df};dL v]tL,;d]tsf] af]l/ª\;d]tsf] h8fg ;xeflutfdf ;xeflutfdf ;dfj]zL ;dfj]zL tl/sfn] tl/sfn] cnUu} cnUu} & &;b:oLo ;b:oLo cg'udg cg'udg k|sf]kk|sf]k hnjfo'hGotyftyf 8'afg 8'afgaf9L, s6fgsf]ifsf]if :yfkgf, :yfkgf,h}ljs af9Lsf]t6jGwaf9Lsf] lgdf{0f, k"j{k"j{ tof/L ljkb\tof/L /fxtldrfxf k|hflt pGd"ng, clUg/]vf k|bfos lgsfoaf6 sf]if ;+sng u/L To;sf] ;~rfngsf nflu jg tyf h}ljs s[lif tyf ldrfxfldl>t jg:klt k|hflt lgdf{0f, 3f;“ xf]l8{ª\;ldlttyf;ldlt j[If/f]k0f,af]8{;d]tsf] lgdf{0f,u7g u7g cfuf]hGo ul/Psf]of]hgf;xeflutfdf ul/Psf] sfof{Gjogsf 5 5 . ;dfj]zL .;f] nflu;f] ;ldltn] 5'§};ldltn] tl/sfn] sf]if :yfkgf;xeflutfd"ns ;xeflutfd"nscnUu} ul/g] &5 ;b:oLo. ;]jf cg'udg,cg'udg, cg'udg k|sf]k tyf 8'afg ljljwtfsf]if :yfkgf,jg ;|f]tdfaf9Lsf] k|hfltsf] ldrfxfk"j{ k|hflttof/L pGd"ng, clUg/]vf ;fd'bflos sf]if ;~rfng sfo{ljlw @)^( th'{df ul/Psf] 5 . of]hgfof]hgf lgdf{0f lgdf{0f / /sfof{Gjog sfof{Gjog kbfy{ lgif]w, hgr]tgf cleofg,k|bfos lgsfoaf6 sf]if ;+sng u/L To;sf] ;~rfngsf nflu ldrfxf jg:kltcltqmd0f lgdf{0f, xf]l8{ª\ af]8{ lgdf{0f,d"Nofª\sg, cfuf]hGo;ldlt u7gk'g/fjnf]sg÷k/fjt{g ul/Psf] 5 . ;f] ;ldltn]tyf l;sfO ;xeflutfd"ns of]hgf adf]lhdcg'udg, of]hgf lgdf{0f / sfof{Gjog ;lqmo jg d"Nofª\sg,Joj:yfkg cEof; ;fd'bflosk'g/fjnf]sg÷k/fjt{g sf]ifcg'udg ;~rfng tyf sfo{ljlw d"Nofª\sg @)^(tyf th'{dfl;sfO ul/Psf] of]hgf5 . adf]lhd jf;:yfgjf;:yfg / / cfunfuLcfunfuL ;fd'bflos;fd'bflos cf>o cf>o dfgjejg k|hfltsf] ejg:jf:Yo lgdf{0f lgdf{0flau|bf]kbfy{ dfgj lgif]w, em'nhgr]tgf k|of]u, zf}rfno,cleofg,d"Nofª\sg, afof]Uof; / k'g/fjnf]sg÷k/fjt{g tyf l;sfO of]hgf adf]lhd jf;:yfg / cfunfuL ;fd'bflos cf>ocltqmd0f ejg lgdf{0f;lqmo jg Joj:yfkg tf]lsPsf]cEof;tf]lsPsf] ;dofjlwdf ;dofjlwdf cfkm\gf] cfkm\gf] k|ltj]bg k|ltj]bg tyftyf ;'emfjx¿;'emfjx¿ ;DalGwt;DalGwt k"jf{wf/k"jf{wf/ :jf:Yo ;'wfl/Psf] r'Nxf] lgdf{0ftf]lsPsf] tyf k|of]ucg'udg ;dofjlwdf tyfof]hgfsf] d"Nofª\sg cfkm\gf]lgoldt cg'udg k|ltj]bg tyf d"Nofª\sgsftyf ;'emfjx¿ nflu ;/f]sf/jfnf ;DalGwt k"jf{wf/ dfgj :jf:Yo hnjfo'hGolau|bf] dfgj af9L, em'ns6fg k|of]u, zf}rfno,h}ljs t6jGw;/f]sf/jfnf afof]Uof;;/f]sf/jfnf lgdf{0f, / ljkb\ /fxtlgsfodf lgsfodf k]z k]z ug]{5 ug]{5 . . ;+:yfut ljsf; ;fdflhs pk]Iff n}lËs tyf ;fdflhs:jf:Yo ;dfj]zLs/0f,;'wfl/Psf] r'Nxf] lgdf{0f tyf k|of]u ;d]tsf] ;xeflutfdf ;dfj]zL tl/sfn] cnUu} & ;b:oLo cg'udg ;+:yfut ljsf; ;fdflhs pk]Iff n}lËs tyf ;fdflhsk|sf]k ;dfj]zLs/0f,tyf 8'afg sf]if :yfkgf, af9Lsf];/f]sf/jfnf k"j{ tof/Lof]hgfsf] lgsfodf lgoldt;ldlt cg'udgu7g k]z ul/Psf] ug]{5tyf d"Nofª\sgsf5 .. ;f] ;ldltn] nflu ;xeflutfd"ns;/f]sf/jfnf cg'udg, ;+:yfut/ jl~rtLs/0fljsf; ;fdflhs cNk;+Vos pk]Iff hnjfo'hGon}lËs / alxis/0fdf tyf af9L,;fdflhs s6fg kfl/Psf ;dfj]zLs/0f,h}ljs t6jGwof]hgf lgdf{0f, lgdf{0f ljkb\ / sfof{Gjog/fxt ;d]tsf] ;xeflutfdf ;dfj]zL tl/sfn] cnUu} & ;b:oLo cg'udg / jl~rtLs/0f cNk;+Vosk|sf]k / alxis/0fdftyf 8'afg kfl/Psfsf]if :yfkgf, af9Lsf] k"j{ tof/L d"Nofª\sg, k'g/fjnf]sg÷k/fjt{g tyf l;sfO of]hgf adf]lhd / jl~rtLs/0f cNk;+Vosjf;:yfg / /alxis/0fdf cfunfuL kfl/Psf;fd'bflos cf>o ejg lgdf{0f ;ldlt u7gtf]lsPsf] ykul/Psf] hfgsf/Lsf 5;dofjlwdf . ;f] ;ldltn] cfkm\gf] nflu;xeflutfd"ns k|ltj]bg tyf cg'udg,;'emfjx¿ ;DalGwt ;d'bfosf];d'bfosf] k|ltlglwTjsf] k|ltlglwTjsf]k"jf{wf/ ;'lglZrttf, ;'lglZrttf,of]hgf lgdf{0f / sfof{Gjog yk hfgsf/Lsf nflu ;d'bfosf] k|ltlglwTjsf] ;'lglZrttf, d"Nofª\sg, ;/f]sf/jfnfk'g/fjnf]sg÷k/fjt{gyk lgsfodfhfgsf/Lsf k]ztyf ug]{5l;sfO nflu. of]hgf adf]lhd hLljsf]kfh{gdfjf;:yfg / ;'wf/;+:yfutcfunfuL ljsf; ;fdflhs;fd'bflos pk]Iff cf>on}lËs ejg tyf lgdf{0f ;fdflhs ;dfj]zLs/0f,tf]lsPsf] ;dofjlwdf cfkm\gf] k|ltj]bg tyf ;'emfjx¿ ;DalGwt hLljsf]kfh{gdfk"jf{wf/ ;'wf/ uf]]bfgfuf]]bfgf dlxnf dlxnf pkef]Qmf pkef]Qmf ;d"x ;d"x hLljsf]kfh{gdf ;'wf// jl~rtLs/0f cNk;+Vos / alxis/0fdf kfl/Psf;/f]sf/jfnf lgsfodfuf]]bfgf k]z dlxnf ug]{5 . pkef]Qmf ;d"x ;+:yfut ljsf; ;fdflhs pk]Iff n}lËs tyf ;fdflhs;d'bfosf] ;dfj]zLs/0f,k|ltlglwTjsf] ;'lglZrttf, Governmentyk hfgsf/Lsf of Nepal nflu g]pnfk'/–(,g]pnfk'/–(,Ministry of Forestalb{of alb{of and Soil Conservation pk/f]Qmpk/f]Qm of]hgf of]hgf cGtu{tsfcGtu{tsf ;a};a} lqmofsnfkx¿nfO{lqmofsnfkx¿nfO{/ jl~rtLs/0f ;DalGwt ;DalGwtcNk;+Vos /hLljsf]kfh{gdf alxis/0fdf kfl/Psf;'wf/ g]pnfk'/–(,uf]]bfgf dlxnf alb{of pkef]Qmf ;d"x pk/f]Qm of]hgf cGtu{tsf ;a} lqmofsnfkx¿nfO{;d'bfosf] ;DalGwt k|ltlglwTjsf] ;'lglZrttf, Departmentyk of Nationalhfgsf/Lsf Parks nflu and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) G.P.O. Box 860, Babarmahal,g]pnfk'/–(, Kathmandu,alb{of Nepal ;]jfk|bfos;]jfk|bfos;]jfk|bfos -;/sf/L, -;/sf/L, -;/sf/L,u}/;/sf/L, u}/;/sf/L, u}/;/sf/L, ;xsf/L ;xsf/L ;xsf/L/ pk/f]Qm / lghL_ lghL_ of]hgf/ lghL_ ;+:yfn]cGtu{tsf;+:yfn]hLljsf]kfh{gdf ;+:yfn] ;a} ;'wf/lqmofsnfkx¿nfO{ /fli6«o/fli6«o ;DalGwt/fli6«o k|s[lt k|s[lt k|s[lt ;+/If0f ;+/If0f uf]]bfgf;+/If0f sf]if, dlxnfsf]if, sf]if, pkef]Qmfalb{of alb{of alb{of ;d"x ;+/If0f ;+/If0f;+/If0f sfo{qmd sfo{qmdsfo{qmd ;]jfk|bfos -;/sf/L, u}/;/sf/L, ;xsf/L / lghL_ ;+:yfn] Tel: +977-1-4220912,/fli6«o k|s[lt 4220850,;+/If0f sf]if, 4227926 alb{of Fax: ;+/If0f +977-1-4227675 sfo{qmd 7fs'/åf/f,7fs'/åf/f,E-mail: alb{of, [email protected] alb{of,g]pnfk'/–(, kmf]g kmf]g g+Malb{of g+M Website:)*$–$)@)$^ )*$–$)@)$^ http://www.dnpwc.gov.np sfof{Gjogdfsfof{Gjogdfsfof{Gjogdf ;xof]u;xof]u ;xof]uub}{ub}{ hfg] hfg]ub}{ k|lta4tfhfg]pk/f]Qmk|lta4tf k|lta4tfof]hgf sfof{Gjogdf ;d]t cGtu{tsf;d]t ;d]t;xof]uhgfPsf hgfPsf;a} lqmofsnfkx¿nfO{ub}{hgfPsf hfg] k|lta4tf ;DalGwt ;d]t hgfPsf 7fs'/åf/f, alb{of,7fs'/åf/f, kmf]g alb{of, g+M kmf]g)*$–$)@)$^ g+M )*$–$)@)$^ 5g\5g\ . of]hgfsf]. of]hgfsf]5g\ . of]hgfsf]sfof{Gjogdf sfof{Gjogdf sfof{Gjogdf ;xhtf ;xhtf ;]jfk|bfos ;xhtfxf];\ xf];\ 5g\-;/sf/L,eGg] xf];\eGg]. of]hgfsf] x]t'n] u}/;/sf/L,eGg]x]t'n] sfof{Gjogdf x/]sx]t'n] x/]s;xsf/L x/]s ;xhtf / lghL_ xf];\ ;+:yfn]eGg] x]t'n]j]a;fO6M j]a;fO6Mx/]sj]a;fO6M /fli6«o www.ntnc.org.np www.ntnc.org.np k|s[ltwww.ntnc.org.np ;+/If0fj]a;fO6M sf]if, www.ntnc.org.np Od]nM alb{ofOd]nM Od]nM [email protected] ;+/[email protected] Od][email protected] sfo{qmd [email protected] sfof{GjogdflqmofsnfknfO{ ;xof]u ub}{ ;–;fgfhfg] k|lta4tfsfdsf] PsfO{df;d]t ;d]thgfPsf juL{s/0f u/L 7fs'/åf/f, alb{of, kmf]g g+M )*$–$)@)$^ lqmofsnfknfO{lqmofsnfknfO{lqmofsnfknfO{ ;–;fgf ;–;fgf sfdsf];–;fgf sfdsf] PsfO{dfsfdsf] PsfO{df5g\ .PsfO{df ;d]t of]hgfsf];d]tof]hgf juL{s/0fsfof{Gjogdf;d]tsfof{GjogjuL{s/0f juL{s/0f ;'? ;xhtf u/Lul/Psf]u/L xf];\ u/L5 .eGg] x]t'n] x/]s j]a;fO6M www.ntnc.org.np Od]nM [email protected] of]hgf sfof{Gjog ;'? ul/Psf]lqmofsnfknfO{ 5 . ;–;fgf sfdsf] PsfO{df ;d]t juL{s/0f u/L of]hgfof]hgf sfof{Gjog sfof{Gjog ;'? ;'? ul/Psf] ul/Psf] 5 5. . of]hgf sfof{Gjog ;'? ul/Psf] 5 . l8:Sn]d/M of] ;d'bfo :t/Lo hnjfo' kl/jt{g cg's"ng of]hgf cd]l/sL hgtfåf/f cd]l/sL ljsf; lgof]u -o"P;P8_sf] dfWodaf6 k|bfg ul/Psf] pbf/ ;xof]uaf6 ;Dej ePsf] xf] . o;df pNn]lvt ljifoj:t'n] cd]l/sL ;/sf/sf] wf/0ffsf] k|ltlglwTj u/]sf] dflgg] 5}g . This action plan is prepared in collaboration with National Trust for Nature Conservation, Hariyo Ban Program l8:Sn]d/M of] ;d'bfo :t/Lo hnjfo' kl/jt{gl8:Sn]d/M cg's"ng of] ;d'bfo of]hgf :t/Lo hnjfo'cd]l/sL kl/jt{g hgtfåf/f cg's"ng of]hgf cd]l/sL cd]l/sL ljsf;hgtfåf/f lgof]ucd]l/sL ljsf;-o"P;P8_sf] lgof]u -o"P;P8_sf] dfWodaf6 dfWodaf6 k|bfg k|bfg ul/Psf] pbf/ pbf/ ;xof]uaf6 ;xof]uaf6 ;Dej ePsf] ;Dejxf] . o;df ePsf] xf] . o;df l8:Sn]d/Ml8:Sn]d/M of] ;d'bfoof] ;d'bfo :t/Lo :t/Lo hnjfo' hnjfo' kl/jt{g kl/jt{g cg's"ng cg's"ngpNn]lvt of]hgf of]hgf ljifoj:t'n] cd]l/sL cd]l/sL cd]l/sL hgtfåf/f ;/sf/sf] hgtfåf/f wf/0ffsf] cd]l/sL cd]l/sLk|ltlglwTj ljsf; u/]sf]ljsf; dflgg] lgof]u 5}glgof]u . -o"P;P8_sf] -o"P;P8_sf] dfWodaf6 dfWodaf6 k|bfg k|bfg ul/Psf] ul/Psf] pbf/ pbf/ ; xof]uaf6;xof]uaf6 ;Dej ;Dej ePsf] ePsf] xf] xf] . o;df. o;df pNn]lvtpNn]lvt ljifoj:t'n] ljifoj:t'n]pNn]lvt cd]l/sL ljifoj:t'n]cd]l/sL ;/sf/sf] ;/sf/sf] cd]l/sL wf/0ffsf] ;/sf/sf]wf/0ffsf] k|ltlglwTj wf/0ffsf]k|ltlglwTj u/]sf]k|ltlglwTj u/]sf] dflgg] dflgg]u/]sf] 5}g 5}gdflgg] . . 5}g .