M/Sshah Sponge and Powerlimited 2 Floor

STUDY OF FLORA, FAUNA& CONSERVATION PLAN (SCHEDULE-I WILD ANIMALS) FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION PROJECT OF SHAH SPONGE & POWER LTD. AT VILLAGE: BHUMRI (JURI), P.O. HATA, DISTRICT: EAST SINGHBHUM, JHARKHAND [ TOR LETTER NO. J-11011/891/2007-IA. II (I)] STUDY PERIOD-1STOCTOBER TO 31ST DECEMBER 2016

SUBMITTED BY M/SSHAH SPONGE AND POWERLIMITED 2ndFLOOR,PADMALAYA, PLOTNO.18, RAM MANDIRSHOP AREA, INFRONTOF HDFCBANK,BISTUPUR, JAMSHEDPUR

PREPARED BY VARDAN ENVIRONET NABET CERTIFICATE NO.-NABET/EIA/1619/RA 0037 D-142, SUSHANT LOK-III SECTOR-57, GURGAON (HARYANA) Email: [email protected]

Table of Contents S.NO. PARTICULARS PAGE NO.

1. Chapter 1: Introduction 3 2. Chapter 2: Objectives and Methodology 21 3. Chapter 3: Status of Flora and Fauna 24 4. Chapter 4: Fauna Conservation Plan: Species Specific 32 Introduction 32 Decline of Wildlife 32 Status of the Forest, their Category in study area 32 Scheduled Fauna in the Study Area 33-65 5. Chapter 5: Action Plan and Financial Projection for Conservation 66 plan 6. Chapter 6: Bibliography 71

ANNEXURES I. ToR LetterJ-11011/891/2007-IA. II(I)

CHAPTER -1 PROJECT BACKGROUND 1.1 Introduction Shah Sponge & Power Ltd is a private limited company in the business of production of Sponge Iron (200 TPD), Pig Iron (60 TPD) and Power generation (8 MW) at Juri, P.O. – Hata, District – East Singhbhum, Jharkhand. The company wishes to expand the capacities of the existing Sponge Iron Plant from 60,000 to 1,20,000 TPA, Captive Power Plant from 8 MW to 30 MW and to install downstream facilities Steel Melting Shop for production of 1,58,000 TPA liquid steel with Continuous Casting for production of 1,51,000 TPA Billets, Rolling Mill for production of 90,000 TPA Rolled products, in two phases. M/s Shah Sponge & Power Ltd. has also proposed to install Fly Ash Brick Plant of capacity 60,000 bricks per day . The company has sound financial background and good market base which they will use to install the steel production units along with CPP to become economic steel producer of the region. The technology involved in the installation of additional unit is not complex and technical & project consultants of M/s Shah Sponge will assist them in whatsoever to commission the plant within shortest period possible.

1.2 Project proponent The company has been promoted by a Group of experience businessmen who are presently engaged in manufacturing and trading of various products. The company is professionally managed and has successfully operated Steel Plant & Captive Power Plant in the past. For becoming leading steel maker in Jharkhand the Company has decided to go for Expansion in steel making &power generation in two phases:

ABOUT THE DIRECTORS: S. No. Name & Designation Age Qualification Experience 1. Shri Shyam Sunder Shah, 55 B. Sc. About 30 years in mining & Director. trading in iron and other sector 2. Shri Raj Kumar Shah, 52 B.A., LLB About 23 years in mining & Director. trading in iron and other sector 3. Smt. Sumitra Shah, 27 MBA About 03 years in Iron and steel C.E.O. sector.

1.2.1 Details of the project The project is for expansion of existing Sponge Iron Plant from 60,000 to 1,20,000 TPA and Power Generation from 8 MW to 30 MW and for installation of Induction Furnaces with Billet Caster and Rolling Mill for production of 1,58,000 TPA of liquid steel, 1,51,000 TPA Billets and 90,000 TPA Rolled Products (TMT Bar & Structural Steel), respectively.

Table 1.1 Existing and Proposed Project Unit Existing Facilities Proposed Facilities Total after Expansion Sponge Iron Plant 2x100 TPD 2x100 TPD 4x100 TPD Mini Blast Furnace 1x 30 m3 (60 TPD) - 1x 30 m3 (60 TPD) Steel Melting Shop Induction Furnace - 4x12 T (480 TPD) 4x12 T (480 TPD) Billet Caster - 2 Strand 6x11 m 2 Strand 6x11 m radius (458 TPD) radius (458 TPD) Rolling Mill - 300 TPD 300 TPD Power Plant 8 MW 22 MW 30 MW WHRB 2x11 TPH 2x11 TPH 4x11 TPH AFBC Boiler 1x30 TPH 1x55 TPH and 2x55 TPH Up-gradation of 1x30 TPH to 1x55 TPH Fly-ash Brick Plant - (60,000 Bricks per (60,000 Bricks per day) day)

CHAPTER 2 OBJECTIVES AND METHODOLOGY

2.1 Introduction to Ecology Floristic and Faunistic pattern of the area was studied based on opportunistic survey (personal observation), inquiries from the local people and forest officials and secondary data. The study area falls under District East Singhbhum, Jharkhand.The biodiversity we see today is the fruit of billions of years of evolution, shaped by natural processes. The vast array of interactions among the various components of biodiversity makes the planet habitable for all species, including humans. There is a growing recognition that, biological diversity is a global asset of tremendous value to present and future generations. At the same time, the threat to species and ecosystems has never been as great as it is today. Species extinction caused by human activities continues at an alarming rate. Protecting biodiversity is in our self-interest. Ecological impact assessment (EcIA) is used to predict and evaluate the impacts of development activities on ecosystems and their components, thereby providing the information needed to ensure that ecological issues are given full and proper consideration in development planning. Environmental impact assessment (EIA) has emerged as a key to sustainable development by integrating social, economic and environmental issues in many countries. EcIA has a major part to play as a component of EIA but also has other potential applications in environmental planning and management (Kumar, 2014).

2.2 Objectives and Methods 2.2.1 Objectives The present study was undertaken with the following objectives to assess the nature and distribution of vegetation in and around the project site within the study area: • To assess the type of wild animals within the study area; • To assess the biodiversity of natural system present in the study area; • To ascertain migratory routes of fauna and possibility of breeding grounds within the study area;

2.2.2 Methodology The study area taken for the study is 10 km radius with the project site complex as center. The different methods adopted were as follows: Inventorisation of flora & fauna: The list of Flora and Fauna found in the Forest Division was collected from the Working Plan (1985-86 to 1994-95) of the division for reference. As the new working plan is still not published, the said working plan is still in operation in the division. The list of flora and fauna found in the region was prepared by conducting field survey and by discussions with concerned Forest Department personnel using the list available in the Working Plan as a base. Generation of primary data through systematic ecological studies: The phyto-sociology of the vegetation (covering frequency, density, abundance and species diversity) in the forest areas falling in the study area was determined by conducting field studies in selected areas (by laying suitable sizes of quadrate). Discussion with local people so as to elicit information about local plant and animals

3 . General Features of the Area The Study area falls under the climatic zone “Tropical wet and dry” (Koppen Classification), under agro-climatic zone 2“ Eastern Plateau and Hills Region” and under agro-ecological zone “Eastern Plateau and Hill regions -hot sub-humid eco-region characterized by hot dry sub- humid ecosystem with Red and Lateritic soils. The vegetation / forest in the study area falls under Tropical Dry Deciduous (Dry peninsular Sal Type SB/C/C) as per Champion & Seth (1968). The East Singhbhum district is seismically stable and falls under the Seismic Zone II as per Seismic Zone India Map IS:1893-2002, BIS, GoI, referred as Low Damage Risk Zone and the probable seismic intensity as expressed in Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale (MSK) is category- VI or less, which is referred to as Low Damage Risk Zone.

Table 2.2. Mode of data collection and parameters considered during the Survey S. Aspect Data Mode of Data Parameters Remarks No. collection monitored

1. Terrestrial Primary By field survey Floral and Random survey, data Faunal opportunistic observations, Ecology diversity diurnal bird observation, collection active search for reptiles, faunal habitat assessment, active search for scats and foot prints, animal call

2. Secondary From authentic Floral and Bentham and Hooker, sources viz. Forests Faunal 1862-1883; Hunter, 1879; data department of diversity Dixit, 1984; Ghosh et al., collection Jharkhand and and study 2004; Lushington, 1915; available published of Wilson and Reeder, 1993; literatures from vegetation, BirdLife International, 2000; ZSI, BSI etc. forest type, BirdLife International, importance 2004a, b; Wilson and Reeder, 2005; BirdLife etc. International, 2010; Kumar and Srivastava, 2012; Kumar, 2013; Kumar et al., 2013; Kumar and Aggarwal, 2013a,b). The status of individual species was assessed using the revised IUCN/SSC category system (WCMC, 1988; IUCN, 1994; WCMC, 2000; IUCN, 2001, 2003, 2008, 2010. CHAPTER 3 STATUS FOR FLORA AND FAUNA

Flora & Fauna of the Study Area There are some forest stretches in the study area. However, the area is totally agricultural-rural and thus no important wildlife species are found in the study area. Due to human interference, in general the availability of animals in the study area is low.The biotic pressurein the area on wild animals is reported due to industrialization. In study area among the fauna reported are few rodents, reptiles and birds. Large mammals are reported in nearby forest areas. Among the Scheduled animals species reported in study area areVaranus benghalensis(I), Python(I), Cobra(II), Common langur (II), leopard (I), Jungal Cat (II), Porcupine (IV), Mongoos (II), Wild bore (III), Barking dear (III), Blue Bull (III), etc. As per the information provided by Forest department there are about 34 wild animals present in the Jamshedpur forest division. Authenticated list of flora & fauna is also provided by Forest department. As per the suggestion of forest department, and as per ToR issued by MoEFCC, conservation Plan has been prepared for 11 scheduled animals present in the division including those present in the study area. The list of animals has been provided below with their detailed characters, threats and conservation measures.

Table 3.1. List of flora in study area Sl No. BotanicalName LocalName HindiName Habit Location in Core/ Buffer 1. Acaciacatechu Kher Kher Tree B 2. Acaciapennata Kundri-jamun Ael Shrub B 3. Adinacardifolia Kanba Haldu,Kalmi Tree B 4. Aeglemarmelos Bel Bel Tree B 5. Albizzialebbek Pandrai KalaSiras Tree B 6. Albizziaprocera Pandari,Karhi SafedSiris Tree B 7. Alistoniascholaris Kunnmung Saptparn Tree B 8. Anonasquamosa Sitafal Sitafal Tree B 9. Antidesmaghassembilla Jodhrali Wanmasuri Shrub B 10. Artocarpusintegra - Ktahal Tree B 11. Azardirachtaindica Neem Neem Tree B 12. Bauhiniaspp. Burja,Kachnar Kachnar Tree B Sl No. BotanicalName LocalName HindiName Habit Location in Core/ Buffer 13. Boswelliaserrata Salai Salai Tree B 14. Buchananialatifolia Tarob Pirar Tree B 15. Buteaparviflora Nasarbal Mouriyan Shrub B 16. Buteaspp. Mur Palas Tree B 17. Buteasuperba Palasbel Badrosin Shrub B 18. Callistemonlanceolatus Lalbottlebrush Lalbottlebrush Tree B 19. Calotropisgigantea Aak Aak Shrub C, B 20. Carissaspinarum Kaman Karaunda Tree B 21. Cassiaciamia Chakundi Chakundi Shrub C, B 22. Cassiafistula Hari Amaltash Tree B 23. Cassiatora Panar Chrot,Chkora Shrub B 24. Cedrelatoona Katangai Toon Tree B

25. Cymbopogonmartini Rusha Rusha Herb B 26. Cynodondactylon Dub Dub Herb B 27. Daedala canthus Bantulsi Bantulsi Shrub B

28. puDerlopunixrierengsia Gulmohar Gulmohar Tree B 29. Dendrocalamusstrictus Buru-mat Bans Bamboo B 30. Dichanthiumannulatum Bharbel Kail Herb B 31. Diospyrosmelanoxylon Kend,Triel Tendu Tree B 32. Dodoneaviscosa Khareta JangliMehndi Shrub C, B 33. Embelicaofficinalis Meral Amla Tree B 34. Erianthusmunja Munj Munj Herb C, B 35. Eulaliopsisbinata Barchon,Bagai Sabai Herb B 36. Ficusbengalensis Bai,Dare Bargad,Bar Tree B 37. Ficusglomerata Lowa Gular Tree B 38. Ficushispida Kathgular Kathumar Tree B 39. Ficusreligiosa Pipal Peepal Tree B 40. Gmelinaarborea Kasmar Gamhar Tree B Sl No. BotanicalName LocalName HindiName Habit Location in Core/ Buffer 41. Grewiatiliaefolia Asing Dhaman Tree B 42. Helicteresisora Potaporla Murarphal Shrub C, B 43. Heteropogoncontortus Saiya,Kusul Lampa Shrub B 44. Holarrhena Kaur Kurchi,Keria Shrub B

45. aIndntiigdoyfseerntapricaulch ella Hutar Jirhul Tree B 46. Ipomoeapes-caparae Besharam Besharam Shrub B 47. Jatrophaspp. Bana-erand Ratanjot Shrub C, B 48. Lagerstroemiaparviflor Sekri Senza,Lediya,Sid Tree B 49. Laa ntanaspp. Raimuniya Rha imuniya Shrub C, B 50. Leucaenaleucocephala Safedbabool Subabool Tree B 51. Madhucaindica Mudupum, Mahua Tree B

52. Mangiferaindica MaUli tkom Aam Tree B 53. Moringaoleifera - Sainjana Tree B 54. Mucunaprurita Kiwach Kewach Shrub B 55. Nyctanthesarbortristis Saprum Harsingar Shrub B 56. Ocimumamaricanum - Bantulsi Shrub C, B 57. Ocimumsanctum Tulsi Tulsi Shrub C, B 58. Phoenixacaulis Kita Khajur Tree B 59. Pongamiaspp. Koroj Karanj Tree B 60. Psidiumguavava Behi Amrood Tree B 61. Pterocarpusmarsupium Hid,Bija,Murg Bijasal,Murga Tree B a 62. RicinusCommunis Arandi Arandi Shrub B 63. Salmaliamalabarica Semra,Idel Simal Tree B 64. Sapindusmukorossi Ritha Reetha Tree B 65. Semicarpusanacardium Soso Bhelwa Tree B 66. Shorearobusta Sarjom,Sarai Sal Tree B 67. Smilaxzeylanica Atkir Ramdaton Shrub B 68. Solanumnigrum Bhatkaya Bhatkatya Shrub C, B Sl No. BotanicalName LocalName HindiName Habit Location in Core/ Buffer 69. Spondiasspp. Ambo Amra Tree B 70. Syxyglumheyneacum Kathjamun Kathjamun Tree B 71. Syzygiumcumini Kuda Jamun, Jam Tree B 72. Tamarindusindica Jojo Imli Tree B 73. Tectonagrandis Sagaun Sagaun Tree B 74. Terminaliabelerica Lupung Bahera Tree B 75. Terminaliachebula Rola Harra,Harar Tree B 76. Terminaliatomentosa Hatana,Saz Asan,Saza Tree B 77. Vetivariazizanioides Khash Urai Shrub B 78. Vitexnegundo Huhri Nirguri Shrub B 79. Woodfordiafruticosa Icha Dhoi Tree B 80. Zizyphusnummularia Jharneri Jhakheri Shrub B 81. Zizyphusspp. Ber Ber Tree B 82. Zizyphusxylopyra Kokar,Ghont Karkata Tree B

Table 3.2. List of Fauna in the study area MAMMALS Schedule of S.No. ScientificName LocalName EnglishName Wildlife ProtectionAct 1 Tetraceros quadricornis Chausingha Four-horned Antelope I 2 Mellivora capensis - Honey Badgeror Ratel I 3 Pteropus giganteus Chamgadad Indian Flying Bat IV 4 Cynopterus sphinx Chamgadad Short-nosed Fruit Bat IV 5 Melursus ursinus Bhalu Sloth Bear I 6 Bos gaurus Jangali Indian Bison or Gaur I 7 Sus scrofa Jangalibhaisa suar Indian Wild Boar III 8 Felis chaus Jangali billi Jungle Cat II 9 Paradoxurus - Common Palm Civet II hermaphrodites 10 Viverricula indica - Small India Civet II 11 Muntiacus muntjak Hiran Barking or Muntjac Deer III 12 Tragulus meminna - Mouse Deer or Indian I Chevrotain 13 Axis axis Chital Spotted Deer III 14 Herpestes javanicus Newla Small Indian Mangoos II 15 Elephas maximus Hathi Elephant I 16 Vulpes bengalensis Lomadi Indian Fox II 17 Tatera indica - India Gerbille IV 18 Lepus nigricollis Khargosh Hare, Indian IV 19 Hyaena hyaena Lakad Striped Hyena III bagha 20 Canis aureus Siyar Jackal II 21 Presbytis entellus Bandar Common Langur II 22 Panthera pardus Tendua Leopard or Panther I 23 Macaca mulatta Bandar Rhesus Macaque II 24 Herpestes edwardsi Newla Common Mangoose II 25 Mus booduga Chuha Indian Field Mouse IV 26 Vendeleuria oleracea Chuha Long-tailed Tree Mouse IV 27 Boselaphus Nilgai Blue Bull III tragocamelus 28 Manis crassicaudata - Indian Pangolin I 29 Hystrix indica Sahi Indian Porcupine IV 30 Bandicota indica Chuha Bandicoot Rat V 31 Golunda ellioti Chuha Indian Bush Rat V 32 Cervus unicolor Hiran Sambhar III 33 Funambulus palmarum Gilhari Three-striped Palm IV Squirrel 34 Canis lupus Bhedia Wolf I

REPTILES Sl N Scientific Name Hindi name English Name Schedule 1 Eryx johnii Saap Boa, Red Sand IV 2 Naja naja naja Kobra Indian Cobra II 3 Ophiophagus hannah Nag King Cobra II 4 Bungarus fasciatus Karait Banded Karait IV 5 Bungarus caeruleus Karait Common Karait IV 6 Python molurus Ajgar Indian Python I 7 Ptyas mucosus Saap Rat Snake II 8 Daboia russelii - Russel Viper II 9 Chamelion calcarata - Chamelion II 10 Hemidactylus flaviviridus Chipkali Indian House Gecko IV 11 Agama buberculatus Chipkali Rock Lizard IV 12 Varanus monitor - Monitor Lizard I

Birds of the area are given below: S N. Scientific name Local Name Eng. Name Schedule 1. Bubulcusobis Gai Bagla Cattleegret IV 2. Milvusmigrans Chil Common pariah kite - 3. Francolinuspond SafedTitar Graypartridge IV(51) icerianus 4. Cotuenixcoturnix Bater Common or greyquail IV(51)

5. Francolinuspictus KalaTitar PaintedPartridge IV(51) 6. Gallusgallus Redjanglefowl Janglimurgi - 7. Grusgrus Commoncrane Baglasaras IV(16) 8. Treronphoenicoptera Harial Common green IV(54) pigeon 9. Columbalivia Kabutar Bluerockpigeon IV(54) 10. Psittaculaeupatria Ramtota Indian Parakeet IV(50)

11. Psittaculakrameri Tota Rose ringedparakeet IV(50) 12. Cuculusvarius Papiha Cuckoo, Brain feverbira IV(17) 13. Eudynamysscolopceae Koel Cuckoo IV 14. Clamatorjacobinus Papihachatak Pied crested IV(17) Cuckoo 15. Bubobubo Uloo Owl IV(48) 16. Alcedoatthis ChottaKilkila Common IV(37) kingfisher 17. Haleyanpileata Korila Black capped kingfisher IV(37)

18. Coraciasbengalensis Nilkanth IndianrollerBluejay IV(59) 19. Dinopimbengalense Kathforwa Golden backed IV(79) woodpecker 20. Picoidesmanrattensis Kathforwa Yellow fronted IV(79) piedwoodpecker 21. Pittabrachura Navrang IndianPitta IV(55-A) 22. Dicrurusadsimilis Bhujang King crow; Black IV(20) Drongo 23. DicrurusCaerulescens PahariBhujang White bellied IV(20) drango 24. Dicrurusparadiseus Bhimraj Large Racket IV taileddrango

25. Aerodotherestristis Maina CommonMaina IV(45) 26. Corvusmacrorhynchos JungleeKouva Junglecrow 27. Pericrocotus Bubul Smallminivet IV(8) cinnamomaus 28. Pericrocotusflammeus Pahari Scarletminivet IV(8) Bulbul/Chasm 29. Coracina Karaiya LargeCuckoo novachollandiae 30. Pycnonotusjocosus PahariBulbul Red whisked IV(8) Bulbul 31. Pycnonotuscafer Bulbul RedventedBulbul (IV(8) 32. Pomatorhi SatBahan Slaty headed IV(3) ns Scimitarbulbul schisticeps 33. Turdoidesstriatus SatBhai Junglebabbler IV(3) 34. Alcippepoioicephale SatBhai QuakerBabbler IV(3) 35. Muscicapatickelline Tick ell‟s blue IV(28) muscicapidae Shama flycatcher

Theecologicalfeaturesofthestudyareacanbedescribedunderfollowingheads: i) Agricultural Land

The agriculture in the area is basically rain fed. The average rainfall in the district ranges from 1150 mm to 1250 mm. The area under agriculture in the district is only 32% of the total geographical area and the cropping intensity is about 116%. Only 14.5 % of net sown area is irrigated and hence major portion of agricultural land is covered under rain- fed mono-crop cultivation. Ground water survey carried out by the State Government indicates that the Potka Block have water discharge capacity as low as 10 litres per second. However, since the ground water exploitation level is less than 08 %, the area is categorized under safe category. The groundwater exploitation is through deep bore-well and dug wells. The farmers in the district have resorted to traditional irrigation sources like rain water and surface water utilization. The Major kharif crops grown are paddy, jowar, bajra, maize, sesame, and vegetables. Major rabi crops, are wheat, jowar, gram, linseed, rapeseed, paddy, groundnut and mustard. Paddy, maize and groundnut are grown during summer also. The crop productivity (yield) in the area is given in Table-3.30 Table-3.30:Agricultural pattern and productivity in the area

S.No. Crops Yieldkg/ha

1 Paddy 2023 2 Jowar 400 3 Bajra 150 4 Maize 1500 5 Wheat 1500 6 Gram 929 7 Linseed 390 8 Rapeseed 620 9 Groundnut 700 10 Mustard 620

CHAPTER 4 FAUNA CONSERVATION PLAN: SPECIES SPECIFIC

4.1 Introduction Conservation and management are two words sometimes used as synonyms and sometimes with different meanings. Generally speaking wild life conservation is regarded as the antithesis to economic development. However, according to IUCN the term conservation should be interpreted as management of the biosphere and the components of its eco-systems for human use in order to derive the greatest sustainable benefits for the present generation while maintaining their potential to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations. Wildlife management is the application of scientific knowledge and technical skills to protect, conserve, limit, enhance, or create wildlife habitat. Wildlife management also includes implementing laws regulating the use, kinds and amounts of wildlife, people can harvest. Laws that protect existing habitat are also wildlife management tools.

4.2 Decline of Wildlife Biological evolution on earth is associated with extinction of older species and descent of new species but the disappearance of species from the surface of the earth has speeded up 1000 to 10,000 times as compared to the natural disappearance, due to destructive activities of man. Important reasons for decline of wildlife are: 1. Fragmentation, degradation and loss of habitat. 2. Hunting and poaching. 3. Deforestation 4. Climate change 5. Man animal conflict. 6. Pollution.

4.3 Status of the forest, their category in study area These forests are found scattered throughout the district. The bulk lies in south-western parts where it runs unbroken in long stretches covering a number of steep rocky hills and intervening valleys. This type of topography becomes a determining factor in the distribution, nature and type of vegetation which varies from a dry thorny type on very dry, exposed, badly eroded rocky hills to semi-evergreen type in sheltered damp valleys. But apart from these two extreme types, the ruling vegetation is moist tropical deciduous forest which tends to become dry deciduous on ridges and exposed spurs on open southern aspects.

4.4 Scheduled Fauna in the Study Area A detailed biological survey of the core zone and buffer zone (10 Km radius from periphery of the project site) was carried out giving details of flora and fauna. Following fauna observed during study period which belongs to various Schedule of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972. Species specific conservation plan for schedule-I fauna has been prepared.

Table 4.1.List of Scheduled-I Faunareported During the Study S.No. Scientific Name Local Name/ English name WLPA, IUCN CITES 1972 Category Listing 1. Bos gaurus Indian Bison or Gaur I NT I 2. Canis lupus Wolf I NT I 3. Elephas maximus Elephant I NT I 4. Manis crassicaudata Indian Pangolin I ED I 5. Mellivora capensis Honey Badgeror Ratel I LC III 6. Melursus ursinus Sloth Bear I NT I 7. Panthera pardus Leopard or Panther I VU I 8. Tetraceros Four-horned Antelope I VU III quadricornis 9. Tragulus meminna Mouse Deer I LC I

REPTILES 1. Python molurus Indian Python I NT I 2. Varanus monitor Monitor Lizard I LC I

1. Conservation plan for Indian Bison (Bosgaurus):

The gaur (Bos gaurus), also called Indian bison, is the largest extant bovine, native to South Asia and South-east Asia. It has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Population decline in parts of its range is likely to be more than 70% during the last three generations. However, population trends are stable in well-protected areas, and are rebuilding in a few areas which previously had been neglected.

The gaur is the tallest of wild cattle species. The Malayan gaur is called seladang, and the Burmese gaur is called pyoung. The domesticated form of the gaur is called Gayal (Bos frontalis) or Mithun.

Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Bovidae Genus: Bos Species: B. gaurus

IUCN: (NT) ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES: Appendix I Local name: Gaur Life span: 30 Years Gestation: 275 days Height: 165 to 220 cm Weight: 650 to 1,000 kg Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent.

Morphology: The gaur has a head-and-body length of 250 to 330 cm with a 70 to 105cm long tail, and is 165 to 220 cm high at the shoulder. The average weight of adult gaur is 650 to 1,000 kg, with an occasional large bull weighing up to 1,500 kg. Males are about one-fourth larger and heavier than females. In general measurements are derived from gaurs surveyed in India and China.

Gaur does not have a distinct dewlap on the throat and chest. Both sexes carry horns, which grow from the sides of the head, curving upwards. Between the horns is a high convex ridge on the forehead. At their bases they present an elliptical cross-section, a characteristic that is more strongly marked in bulls than in cows. The horns are decidedly flattened at the base and regularly curved throughout their length, and are bent inward and slightly backward at their tips. The colour of the horns is some shade of pale green or yellow throughout the greater part of their length, but the tips are black. The horns, of medium size by large bovid standards, grow to a length of 60 to 115 cm (24 to 45 in).

Ecology and Behavior: Gaurs are basically diurnal, however, in some areas they have become largely nocturnal due to forest molestation caused by humans. In central India, they are most active at night, and are rarely seen in the open in the morning. During the dry season, herds congregate and remain in small areas, dispersing into the hills with the arrival of the monsoon. While gaur depends on water for drinking, they do not seem to bathe or wallow. In January and February, gaur lives in small herds of 8 to 11 individuals, one of which is a bull. In April or May, more bulls may join the herd for mating, and individual bulls may move from herd to herd, each mating with many cows. In May or June, they leave the herd and may form herds of bulls only or live alone. Herds wander 2–5 km each day. Each herd has a nonexclusive home range, and sometimes herds may join in groups of 50 or more. The average population density is about 0.6 animals per square kilometre, with herds having home ranges of around 80 km2. Gaur herds are led by an old adult female, the matriarch. Adult males may be solitary. During the peak of the breeding season, unattached males wander widely in search of receptive females. No serious fighting between males has been recorded, with size being the major factor in determining dominance. Males make a mating call of clear, resonant tones which may carry for more than 1.6 km. Gaur have also been known to make a whistling snort as an alarm call, and a low, cow-like moo.

In some regions in India where human disturbance is minor, the gaur is very timid and shy despite their great size and power. When alarmed, gaur crash into the jungle at a surprising speed. However, in South-east Asia and South India, where they are used to the presence of humans, gaur is said by locals to be very bold and aggressive. They are frequently known to go into fields and graze alongside domestic cattle, sometimes killing them in fights. Gaur bulls may charge without provocation, especially during summer, when the intense heat and parasitic insects make them more short-tempered than usual. To warn other members of its herd of approaching danger, the gaur lets out a high whistle for help.

Diet: Gaurs are primarily intermediate or adaptable mixed feeders. Gaur selected herbs, shrubs, and grasses, and avoided eating woody plants for most of the year. Seasonal changes in the chemical composition of the feces were related to changes in phenology. The levels of crude protein, within certain limitations, and lignin in the feces were probably the most reliable indicators of diet quality.

Reproduction Gaur have one calf (or occasionally two) after a gestation period of about 275 days, about nine months, a few days less than domestic cattle. Calves are typically weaned after 7 to 12 months. Sexual maturity occurs in the gaur's second or third year. Breeding takes place year-round, but typically peaks between December and June. The lifespan of a gaur in captivity is up to 30 years.

Threats & Conservation: Gaurs are highly threatened by poaching for trade, but also by opportunistic hunting, and specific hunting for home consumption. Bos gaurus is listed in CITES Appendix I, and is legally protected in all range states. Cry conservation of animal genetic resources have been put into place in order to help reinforce the Gaur population.

2. Conservation plan for Indian wolf (Canis lupus):

The Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) is a subspecies of grey wolf that ranges from Israel to the Indian Subcontinent. It is intermediate in size between the Tibetan and Arabian wolf, and lacks the former's luxuriant winter coat. The Indian wolf is similar in structure to the European wolf, but is smaller, more slightly built, and has shorter fur with little to no under fur.

Its habits are similar to those of other grey wolf subspecies, though the Indian wolf generally lives in smaller packs rarely exceeding 6-8 individuals, and are relatively less vocal, having rarely been known to howl. It tends to breed from mid-October to late December, and whelp in holes or ravines. It typically preys on antelopes, rodents, and hares. It usually hunts in pairs when targeting antelopes, with one wolf acting as a decoy while the other attacks from behind.

Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family: Canidae Subfamily: C. l. pallipes Genus: Canis Species: C. Lupus

IUCN: NT ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES listing: Appendix I Local names: Indian Wolf Life span: 6-8 Years Gestation: 59-63 days Height: 24 to 38 inches Weight: 40 to 60 pounds Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent.

Morphology: Head and body about 3 feet, tail with hair 16 to 17 inches. "Greyish fulvous, usually with a brownish tinge, some-times much mixed with black on the back; some have a reddish tinge, and occasionally it is said that a thoroughly rufous individual is met with. Browner than C. lupus generally, and of an earthy grey colour. Hair of varying shades of light brown from the base to near the end; tips black on the back. Coarse white hairs are mixed with the finer fur near the skin. The hairs on the tail have generally black tips. Lower parts dingy white. The young are sooty brown, with a milk-white chest-spot, which disappears about the sixth week from birth, when a dark collar appears below the neck, but is lost at maturity." Ecology and Behavior The Indian wolf, although somewhat gregarious, is not known to associate in large packs. It is also rather a silent animal, but sometimes, it barks like a pariah dog. It is rarely, if ever, heard to howl. Indian wolves prey on all mammals or birds they can kill, but especially on sheep, goats, and antelopes. They course and run down hares and foxes, and occasionally attack cattle. They not infrequently kill dogs. Like all wild canines, these animals are very intelligent and cunning, and many of the stories told of the stratagems they em-ploy to secure their prey appear to be well authenticated.

Diet: Wolves are carnivores (meat eaters) but they will eat other foods as well. Their diet ranges from big game, such as elk and moose, to earthworms, berries and grasshoppers. To avoid using too much energy catching their food, wolves prey on weaker members of a herd, such as old, young or sick animals. In summer, when the herds migrate, wolves eat mice, birds and even fish. They may also eat carrion. Wolves eat their food very quickly, probably to protect it from being stolen, and to decrease the chance of attack from other predators. They eat the best parts first, and come back later for the remainder, as they can't afford to be wasteful. They will hide food in the snow, or icy soil, which helps to preserve it, and protect it from scavengers. Wolves can eat every 5-6 hours when there is plenty of food available, or they can fast and live on scraps for 2 weeks when there is less food around.

Reproduction- Wolves breed in holes in the ground, or caves. The young vary in number from three to eight, and are born from October to December, chiefly in the latter month. They are born blind and with drooping ears.

Threats & Conservation: Despite the highest level of protection accorded to the wolves in India, hunting remains rampant and is a major cause of concern. Killing of adult wolves and pups by local sheepherders is common throughout the range of the wolf. Conflict with humans for livestock depredation, depletion of prey species (like blackbuck, hare) due to livestock, exaggerated public fear regarding their danger, and fragmented habitats that are too small for populations with long- term viability are threatening their survival today.

The Indian Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes), is an endangered species in Schedule I of Indian wildlife according to the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. It is also in appendix 1 of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

3. Conservation plan for Indian Elephant(Elephas Maximus):

The Indian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) is one of three recognized subspecies of the Asian elephant and native to mainland Asia. Asian elephants live in a variety of habitats in the tropical region, including grasslands, tropical evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, and scrub forests. They typically live in elevations from sea level to 3,000 meters. Asian Elephants are described as being highly intelligent. The size of their brain is fairly large, indicating they most likely have good cognitive abilities. Elephas maximus are known for using tools for body care, feeding and drinking, rest and sleep, social behavior, and interspecific interactions.

Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Proboscidea

Family: Elephantidae Genus: Elephas Species: maximus

IUCN: NT ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES listing: Appendix I Local names: Indian Elephant Life span: 48 Years Gestation: 18-22 months Height: 2.7 cm Weight: 2700-5400 kg Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent.

Morphology: Elephas maximus is one of the largest terrestrial organisms and is considered a megafauna species. Asian elephants have gray skin that is covered with hair. In adults, this hair is sparse, while calves have thicker brown hair. The body length ranges from 550 to 640 cm. The trunk is a distinctive feature of the elephant family (Elephantidae). There is a large degree of sexual dimorphism in elephants. The males are much larger than the females. Males have a height of 240 to 300 cm with a body mass of 3,500 to 6,000 kg. Females are 195 to 240 cm in height with a body mass of 2,000 to 3,500 kg. Males have tusks which are an elongation of the second upper incisors, while females lack tusks. In contrast to African elephants, Asian elephants have ears that are much smaller, the back is not as sloping, the head rather than the shoulders is the highest part of the body, the trunk has a single finger-like projection rather than two, and the hind foot has 4 nails rather than 3. The cylindrical feet consist of reduced phalanges resting on a pad of elastic tissue. The elephant's teeth are unique. They have a limited number of very large teeth that move forward in the mouth as the animal ages; as the front teeth are worn away with use they are replaced from behind. In males, a pair of incisors is elongated (growing 17 cm per year throughout the animal's life) into tusks.

Ecology and Behavior: Elephas maximus is a nomadic species that lives on the ground and moves around frequently. Their fastest speed is approximately 32 km/hour. They can climb hills easily, but are not able to jump. Elephants are very good swimmers, and can submerge their body leaving only the trunk out of the water. Elephas maximus is diurnal and nocturnal because of the amount of time needed to spend searching for food to sustain their large bodies. They spend 12 to 18 hours searching for and eating food, and eat 10% of their body mass daily. The Asian elephant has several behaviors related to thermoregulation. They live in a hot climate and have a large body size, which causes the elephants to heat up quickly. During the hottest hours of the day, they are less active and spend time in shady areas. Asian elephants bathe frequently and submerge themselves in water to cool down. They can use their trunk to spray water or saliva on themselves. They cover themselves in mud or soil to keep their skin cool. Asian elephants flap their ear to get rid of excess heat. This works because the large surface area of the ears allows heat to be lost quickly. There is a positive correlation between the frequency of ear flapping and the temperature of the environment.

Elephas maximus has matriarchal social organization. The females and offspring live together in a group, while the males live in smaller groups or alone. A clan consists of related females and their offspring with strong social bonds, and is usually between 5 and 20 individuals in size. Larger groups are formed when clans loosely join together. These groups form and break apart depending on the season, habitat, and other conditions. After males reach sexual maturity they leave the group to live solitary or in small groups with other males with loose social bonds. Males are found with the larger groups when they are trying to mate with a female. There is combat and a dominance hierarchy for males that affects their ability to mate.

Elephas maximus is considered a keystone species because of their large impact on the ecosystem. They eat a very large amount of food daily, which facilitates nutrient cycling. Because of their large size, they transform the habitat by tearing down trees. This creates gaps in the forest, allowing small animals to move around. This space also allows for the growth of herbaceous plants, which are food for small animals. Diet: Asian elephants are herbivores that eat many types of plant food. Most of its diet consists of Fabaceae (legumes), Poaceae (grasses), Cyperaceae (sedges), Palmae (palms), Euphorbiaceae (spurges), Rhamnaceae (buckthorn) and Malvales (mallows, sterculias and basswoods). However, they can eat more than 100 species of plants, including bamboo, sugarcane, crops, roots of trees, flowers, fruit, seeds, grains, and the bark of trees. The trunk is important for the diversity of food habits in the elephant because it allows the elephant to grasp many types of food. The daily food requirement for an adult Asian elephants is about 150 kg of food per day, or 60 kg in dry matter terms. About 140 - 200 L of water may be drunk daily.

Reproduction: Female Asian elephants bear a single calf (usually) after a gestation of more than a year and a half (18 to 22 months). Their estrus cycle is about 22 days, out of which they are receptive to copulation on only one day, the first day of estrus. There is no seasonality in their reproduction. Females on good quality habitats give birth every three to four years, while the interbirth interval can be much longer among females inhabiting poor quality areas. Newborns weigh about 100 kg and can stand soon after birth. The infant may nurse from its mother or from other lactating females. After a few days it can follow its mother as she goes about her normal activities. Young begin to eat some grass after several months but may continue nursing for 18 months. They also eat their mother's dung, which contains nutrients as well as the symbiotic bacteria that aid in the digestion of cellulose. Mothers continue to supervise their young for several years after weaning. Both sexes become sexually mature at about 14 years of age, but males cannot mate until they can dominate other adult males. Males leave their natal herd at this age, but females remain with their female relatives throughout their lives. Threats & Conservation: The greatest threats to E. maximus include loss and fragmentation of habitat, human-elephant conflicts, and poaching. Asian elephants are being affected by the loss of their natural habitat due to the expanding human population. Poaching male elephants for their tusks is another major issue affecting E. maximus. Since only males have tusks, poaching leads to extremely skewed sex ratios, creating a problem with inbreeding since there aren't enough breeding males. The elephants are also hunted for hide and meat. Loss of significant extents of elephant range and suitable habitat continues; their free movement is impeded by reservoirs, hydroelectric projects and associated canals, irrigation dams, numerous pockets of cultivation and plantations, highways, railway lines, mining and industrial development. Elephant calves are vulnerable to predation.

Elephas maximus is listed on CITES Appendix I. Project Elephant was launched in 1992 by the Government of India Ministry of Environment and Forests to provide financial and technical support of wildlife management efforts by states for their free ranging populations of wild Asian Elephants. The project aims to ensure long-term survival of viable conservation reliant populations of elephants in their natural habitats by protecting the elephants, their habitats and migration corridors. Other goals of Project Elephant are supporting research of the ecology and management of elephants, creating conservation awareness among local people, providing improved veterinary care for captive elephants.

4. Conservation plan for Manis Crassicaudata (Indian pangolin):

Manis Crassicaudata are insectivorous mammals understood to occur in various types of tropical forests as well as open land, grasslands and degraded habitats, including in close proximity to villages. It is a medium-sized mammal, with a streamline elongated body and tail covered with large overlapping scales rather than fur. Various anatomical adaptations enable it for an exclusive myrmecophagous diet. Indian Pangolin is widely distributed in India, except the arid region, high Himalayas and the North- East. It can be found at elevation up to 2500m. The species also occurs in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Pholidota

Family: Manidae Genus: Manis Species: crassicaudata

IUCN: ED ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES listing: Appendix I Local names: Indian Pangolin Life span: 13 Years Gestation: 65-70 days Height: 45-75 cm Weight: 9-18 Kg Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent.

Morphology: The Indian pangolin is a solitary, shy, slow-moving, nocturnal mammal. Head and body length of Manis crassicaudata can range from 45-75cm, and the tail can be 33-45cm and weighs 10–16 kg. Males are generally larger than females. The head is small and triangular in shape and the body is slender and long. Manis crassicaudata is covered with about 15-18 rows of tough scales along the dorsal side of its head and body, and about 14-16 rows of scales on its tail. These scales are yellow-brown or yellow-gray in color and made of fused hair. The tough surface protects them from predators, prey, parasites, cold weather, and sharp rocks when they burrow. The scales make up 1/4 to 1/3 of its body mass. They possess 5 powerful claws on each limb, 3 of which are adapted for digging burrows or locating their prey's nests. They have no teeth. Their tongue, which is 23-25.5cm long, is their main tool for capturing food. It has muscular attachments extending all the way to the pelvis.

Ecology and Behavior: Manis crassicaudata occupy a variety of habitats. They have been found in tropical rainforests, subtropical thorn forests, plains and the lower slopes of mountains. The Indian pangolin is solitary, mostly nocturnal, and terrestrial. These pangolins dig their own burrows in the ground, at depths of 1.5–6 m; these are frequently under large rocks and the entrance is often hidden with soil. When in danger, they roll up into balls, with their large tails pressed tightly against face and belly to help protect themselves. Longevity of this animal in captivity can exceed 19 years. These pangolins are not often observed in the wild due to their solitary, secretive, and nocturnal nature. A loud emission of a hissing sound has been reported when they are frightened or angry. M. crassicaudata possesses anal glands which emit a strong and musky-smelling yellow fluid, possibly used for marking or defense. Indian pangolins are nocturnal and mostly active intermittently between 17:00 and 05:00 hr. The peak period of activity was observed between 20:00–21:00 hr in captive individuals with some one individual variation.

Diet: The Indian pangolin is almost entirely insectivorous and more specifically a myrmecophage (ant/termite specialist). Its diet includes beetles, cockroaches, termites, and possibly worms, but mainly ants and termites. It feeds on the eggs, larvae, and adults of its prey, but eggs are the preferred choice. The Indian pangolin is nocturnal and uses its well-developed sense of smell to locate ant nests or termite mounds and other food sources. Pangolins tear apart and dig into mounds by using the three centre claws on their forefeet, throwing loose soil backwards with their hind feet. When feeding, the rostral part of the pangolin's tongue is quickly inserted and withdrawn to capture prey. This movement is also used for drinking. Red weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina) with their eggs are best accepted by the Indian pangolins in captivity.

Reproduction: During the animal's mating period, females and males may share the same burrow and show some diurnal activities. Males have testes in a fold of the skin located in their groin areas. The female's embryo develops in one of the uterine horns. The gestation period lasts 65–70 days; the placenta is diffuse and not deciduate. Usually, a single young is born, but twins have been reported in this species. The young weigh 235-400 g at birth and measure roughly 30 cm. The newborn animals have open eyes, and soft scales with protruding hairs between them. The mother pangolin carries her young on her tail. When the mother and young are disturbed, the young pangolin is held against its mother's belly and protected by the mother's tail. Pangolins were found to not show any significant morphological changes during pregnancy. At birth a baby pangolin weighed 235 g and measured 30 cm in total length, including 12.5 cm of tail.

Threats & Conservation: The species is subject to intense poaching for its meat, alleged medicinal properties and use of scales for curios leading to population declines. Although the Indian pangolin is protected by national legislation in many protected areas throughout its range, it is heavily exploited for its flesh, scales, and skin. Illegal demand has increased over the past 20 years. Populations are declining due to hunting and poaching for both subsistence and international trade. As they only have a single offspring per year, this high demand is starting to seriously endanger populations. Various parts of the pangolin are valued as sources of food and medicine. The scales are used as an aphrodisiac, or made into rings or charms. The skins are used to manufacture leather goods, including boots and shoes. The majority of hunting is carried out by nomads and trained local hunters. The species is therefore listed as endangered in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; under the Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 of India and included in Appendix II of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

5. Conservation plan for Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis):

The honey badger (Mellivora capensis), also known as the Ratel is the only species in the Mustelid subfamily Mellivorinae and its only genus Mellivora. It is native to Africa, Southwest Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. Despite its name, the honey badger does not closely resemble other badger species; instead, it bears more anatomical similarities to weasels. It is classed as Least Concern by the IUCN owing to its extensive range and general environmental adaptations. It is primarily a carnivorous species and has few natural predators because of its thick skin and ferocious defensive abilities.

Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia Order: Carnivora

Family: Mustelidae Subfamily: Mellivorinae Genus: Mellivora Species: capensis

IUCN: LC ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule- I CITES: Appendix III Local name: Ratel Life span: 24 Years Gestation: 50-70 days Height: 23 - 28 cm Weight: 6 to 16 Kg Native: Native to Africa, South-west Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

Morphology:

The honey badger has a fairly long body, but is distinctly thick-set and broad across the back. Its skin is remarkably loose, and allows it to turn and twist freely within it. The skin around the neck is 6 millimeters thick, an adaptation to fighting conspecifics. The head is small and flat, with a short muzzle. The eyes are small, and the ears are little more than ridges on the skin,another possible adaptation to avoiding damage while fighting.

The honey badger has short and sturdy legs, with five toes on each foot. The feet are armed with very strong claws, which are short on the hind legs and remarkably long on the forelimbs. It is a partially plantigrade animal whose soles are thickly padded and naked up to the wrists. The tail is short and is covered in long hairs, save for below the base.

Honey badgers are the largest terrestrial mustelids adult’s measure 23 to 28 cm in shoulder height and 55–77 cm in body length, with the tail adding another 12–30 cm. Females are smaller than males. Males weigh 9 to 16 kg while females weigh 5 to 10 kg on average. Skull length is 13.9–14.5 cm in males and 13 cm for females.

There are two pairs of mammae. The honey badger possesses an anal pouch which, unusual among mustelids, is eversible, a trait shared with hyenas and mongooses. The smell of the pouch is reportedly "suffocating", and may assist in calming bees when raiding beehives.

Ecology & Behavior:

Although mostly solitary, honey badgers may hunt together in pairs during the May breeding season. Little is known of the honey badger's breeding habits. Its gestation period is thought to last six months, usually resulting in two cubs, which are born blind. They vocalize through plaintive whines. Its lifespan in the wild is unknown, though captive individuals have been known to live for approximately 24 years.

Honey badgers live alone in self-dug holes. They are skilled diggers, able to dig tunnels into hard ground in 10 minutes. These burrows usually have only one passage and a nesting chamber and are usually only 1–3 m long. They do not place bedding into the nesting chamber. Although they usually dig their own burrows, they may take over disused aardvark and warthog holes or termite mounds.

Honey badgers are intelligent animals and are one of a few species known to be capable of using tools. As with other mustelids of relatively large size, such as wolverines and badgers, honey badgers are notorious for their strength, ferocity and toughness. They have been known to savagely and fearlessly attack almost any kind of animal when escape is impossible, reportedly even repelling much larger predators such as lions. Bee stings, porcupine quills, and animal bites rarely penetrate their skin. If horses, cattle, or Cape buffalos intrude upon a ratel's burrow, it will attack them. They are virtually tireless in combat and can wear out much larger animals in physical confrontations. The aversion of most predators toward hunting honey badgers has led to the theory that the counter shaded coats of cheetah cubs evolved in imitation of the honey badger's colouration to ward off predators.

The voice of the honey badger is a hoarse "khrya-ya-ya-ya" sound. When mating, males emit loud grunting sounds. Cubs vocalise through plaintive whines. When confronting dogs, honey badgers scream like bear cubs.

Diet:

Honey badgers favour bee honey, and will often search for beehives to get it, which earns them their name. They are also carnivorous and will eat insects, frogs, tortoises, rodents, turtles, lizards, snakes, eggs, and birds. Honey badgers have even been known to chase away young lions and take their kills. They will eat fruit and vegetables, such as berries, roots and bulbs.

They may hunt frogs and rodents, such as gerbils and ground squirrels, by digging them out of their burrows. Honey badgers are able to feed on tortoises without difficulty, due to their powerful jaws. They kill and eat snakes, even highly venomous or large ones, such as cobras. They have been known to dig up human corpses in India. They devour all parts of their prey, including skin, hair, feathers, flesh and bones, holding their food down with their forepaws. When seeking vegetable food, they lift stones or tear bark from trees.

Reproduction:

Reproduction in honey badgers is generally not well studied. Much of the recent literature on the species describes honey badgers as solitary animals, coming together only briefly for mating. The scent-marking behavior of honey badgers appears to play an important role in finding a mate. There are typically more males available to mate than there are receptive females, due to the long period of time the offspring are dependent on their mother, 12 to 16 months. This means that adult male honey badgers are competing with each other for access to females. Male honey badgers that are more dominant will typically be heavier and have larger testes. However, this dominance does not guarantee mating success. Since mating occurs in a burrow, very few observations of the process have been made.

Threats & Conservation:

Honey badgers are not common anywhere in their range, although densities vary from one region to another. The overall population shows a decreasing trend, despite the fact that the species is protected in some of the countries that it inhabits. The IUCN Red List identifies the species as "Least Concern" because, although the population is declining, the species has a broad geographic range and is not a dietary specialist. The Botswanan population is included on CITES Appendix III. The largest threat to honey badgers is probably human activity. Individuals are often killed, either intentionally or unintentionally with traps and poison baits by farmers and apiculturists trying to reduce predator population, and others are subject to hunting for traditional medicinal remedies. Honey badgers have large home ranges, so tracking and ensuring conservation for them is exceedingly difficult.

6. Conservation plan for sloth bear(Melursus ursinus): The sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), also known as the labiated bear, is an insectivorous bear species native to the Indian subcontinent. The sloth bear evolved from ancestral brown bears during the Pleistocene and shares features found in insect-eating mammals through convergent evolution. Compared to brown and black bears, sloth bears have lankier builds, long, shaggy coats that form a mane around the face, long, sickle-shaped claws, and a specially adapted lower lip and palate used for sucking insects. Sloth bears breed during spring and early summer and give birth near the beginning of winter. They feed on termites, honeybee colonies, and fruits. Sloth bears sometimes attack humans who encroach on their territories. Historically, humans have drastically reduced their habitat and diminished their population by hunting them for food and products such as their bacula and claws. These bears have been used as performing pets due to their tameable nature. The sloth bear is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat loss and poaching.

Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family: Ursidae Subfamily: Ursinae Genus: Melursus Species: ursinus

IUCN: (NT) ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES listing: Appendix I Local names: Sloth Bear Life span: 30 Years Gestation: 210 days Height: 60-90 cm Weight: 130 kg Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent.

Morphology: Sloth bears are distinguished from Asian black bears by their lankier builds, longer, shaggier coats, pale muzzles, and white claws. Adults are medium-sized bears weighing around 130 kg on average, though weight can range variously from 55 to 124 kg in females and from 80 to 192 kg in males. They are 60–90 cm high at the shoulder, and have a body length of 1.4–1.9 m. Females are smaller than males, and have more fur between their shoulders.

Sloth bear muzzles are thick and long, with small jaws and bulbous snouts with wide nostrils. They have long lower lips which can be stretched over the outer edge of their noses, and lack upper incisors, thus allowing them to suck up large numbers of insects. The premolars and molars are smaller than in other bears, as they do not chew as much vegetation. In adults, the teeth are usually in poor condition, due to the amount of soil they suck up and chew when feeding on insects. The back of the palate is long and broad, as is typical in other ant-eating mammals. The paws are disproportionately large, and have highly developed, sickle-shaped, blunt claws which measure 10 cm (4 in) in length. Their toe pads are connected by a hairless web. They have the longest tail in the bear family, which can grow to 15–18 cm (6–7 in).Their back legs are not very strong, though they are knee-jointed, and allow them to assume almost any position. The ears are very large and floppy. The sloth bear is the only bear with long hair on its ears.

Sloth bear fur is completely black, save for a whitish Y- or V-shaped mark on the chest. This feature, which is also present in Asian black bears and sun bears, is thought to serve as a threat display, as all three species are sympatric with tigers. The coat is long, shaggy, and unkempt, despite the relatively warm environment in which the species is found, and is particularly heavy behind the neck and between the shoulders, forming a mane which can be 30 cm (12 in) long. The belly and under legs are almost bare.

Ecology and Behavior: Adult sloth bears may travel in pairs, with the males being gentle with cubs. They may fight for food. They walk in a slow, shambling motion, with their feet being set down in a noisy, flapping motion. They are capable of galloping faster than running humans. Although they appear slow and clumsy, both young and adult sloth bears are excellent climbers. They climb to feed and to rest, though not to escape enemies, as they prefer to stand their ground. Sloth bear mothers carry cubs up to 9 months old on their backs instead of sending their cubs up trees as the primary defense against attacks by predators, such as tigers, leopards, and other bears. They are capable of climbing on smooth surfaces and hanging upside down like sloths. They are good swimmers, and primarily enter water to play. To mark their territories, sloth bears scrape trees with their forepaws, and rub against them with their flanks. Sloth bears have a great vocal range. Gary Brown, in his Great Bear Almanac, lists over 25 different sounds in 16 different contexts. Sounds such as barks, screams, grunts, roars, snarls, whickers, woofs, and yelps are made when angered, threatening, or when fighting. When hurt or afraid, they shriek, yowl, or whimper. When feeding, sloth bears make loud huffing and sucking noises, which can be heard over 100 m away. Sounds such as gurgling or humming are made by bears resting or sucking their paws. Sows emit crooning sounds to their cubs. The species is the most vociferous when mating, and make loud, melodious calls when doing so. Sloth bears do not hibernate. They make their day beds out of broken branches in trees, and rest in caves during the wet season. Sloth bears are the most nocturnal of bears, though sows become more active in daytime when with cubs.

Diet: Sloth bears are expert hunters of termites, which they locate by smell. On arriving at a mound, they scrape at the structure with their claws till they reach the large combs at the bottom of the galleries, and disperse the soil with violent puffs. The termites are then sucked up through the muzzle, producing a sucking sound which can be heard 180 m away. Their sense of smell is strong enough to detect grubs 3 ft below ground. Unlike other bears, they do not congregate in feeding groups. They rarely prey on other mammals. Sloth bears may supplement their diets with fruit and plant matter; in March and April, they eat the fallen petals of mowha trees and are partial to mangoes, sugar cane, jackfruit, and the pods of the golden shower tree. Sloth bears are extremely fond of honey. When feeding their cubs, sows are reported to regurgitate a mixture of half-digested jack fruit, wood apples, and pieces of honeycomb. This sticky substance hardens into a dark yellow, circular, bread-like mass which is fed to the cubs.

Reproduction: The breeding season for sloth bears varies according to location: in India, they mate in April, May, and June, and give birth in December and early January. Sows gestate for 210 days, and typically give birth in caves or in shelters under boulders. Litters usually consist of one or two cubs, or rarely three. Cubs are born blind, and open their eyes after four weeks. Sloth bear cubs develop quickly compared to most other bear species. They start walking a month after birth, become independent at 24–36 months, and become sexually mature at the age of three years.

Threats & Conservation: Major threats to this species are habitat loss or degradation, retaliation from human‒bear conflicts, and (to a lesser degree) poaching. Habitat has been lost, degraded, and fragmented by overharvest of forest products (timber, fuel wood, fodder, fruits, honey), establishment of monoculture plantations (e.g. teak, eucalyptus), over-grazing, extraction of minerals, quarrying, settlement of refugees, and expansion of agricultural areas, human settlements, and roads. The only natural (non-human) threats to Sloth Bears are Tigers (Panthera tigris) and possibly Leopards (P. pardus). The threat of Tiger predation may account for the aggressive nature of Sloth Bears. Sloth Bears have been observed fending off Tigers, but they are also occasionally killed by Tigers. IUCN estimates that less than 20,000 sloth bears survive in the wilds of the Indian subcontinent. The sloth bear is listed in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which provides for their legal protection. International trade of the sloth bear is prohibited as it is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. The population of sloth bears grows when they live in high-profile reserves that protect species, such as tigers and elephants. Directly managed reserves could conserve the sloth bear, hence such reserves must be supported.

7. Conservation plan for Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus)

Indian leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) is a leopard subspecies widely distributed on the Indian subcontinent. The species Panthera pardus is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List because populations have declined following habitat loss and fragmentation, poaching for the illegal trade of skins and body parts, and persecution due to conflict situations. The Indian leopard is one of the five big cats found in India, apart from the Asiatic lion, the Bengal tiger, the snow leopard and the clouded leopard. In 2014, a national census of leopards around tiger habitats was carried out in India except the northeast. 7,910 individuals were estimated in surveyed areas and a national total of 12,000-14,000 speculated.

Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Carnivora

Family: Felidae

Genus: Panthera

Species: Panthera pardus

IUCN: (VU) ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES listing: Appendix I Local names: Leopard Life span: 12-17 Years Gestation: 90-105 days Height: 60-70 cm (M), 57-64 cm (F) Weight: 90-98 Kg (M), 80-86 Kg (F) Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent. It is widespread in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan.

Geographical Distribution & Habitat: On the Indian subcontinent, topographical barriers to the dispersal of this subspecies are the Indus River in the west, and the Himalayas in the north. In the east, the Ganges Delta and the lower course of the Brahmaputra River form natural barriers to the range of the Indochinese leopard. Indian leopard is distributed all over India, in Nepal, Bhutan and parts of Pakistan. Bangladesh has no viable leopard population but there are occasional sightings in the forests of Sylhet, Chittagong Hill Tracts and Cox's Bazar. Indian leopard inhabits tropical rain forests, dry deciduous forests, temperate forests and northern coniferous forests but does not occur in the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans. In the Himalayas it is sympatric with the snow leopard up to 5,200 m (17,100 ft) above sea level.

Ecology and Behavior: Leopards are elusive, solitary, and largely nocturnal. They are known for their ability in climbing, and have been observed resting on tree branches during the day, dragging their kills up trees and hanging them there, and descending from trees headfirst. They are powerful swimmers, although are not as disposed to swimming as some other big cats, such as the tiger. They are very agile, and can run at over 58 kilometres per hour (36 mph), leap over 6 m (20 ft) horizontally, and jump up to 3 m (9.8 ft) vertically. They produce a number of vocalizations, including grunts, roars, growls, meows, and purrs.

Indian leopards are not common in habitat where tiger density is high, and are wedged between prime tiger habitat on the one side, and cultivated village land on the other. Where the tiger population increases, tigers drive leopards off to areas located closer to human settlements. In the Gir National Park, they are sympatric with Asiatic lions. Elsewhere on the Indian subcontinent, they co-occur with Asian black bears, sloth bears, Indian wolves, striped hyenas and wild dogs. Leopards are versatile, opportunistic hunters, and have a very broad diet. The diet of Indian leopards include Axis deer, Sambar deer, Nilgai, wild pig, common Langur, hare and Peafowl.

Although they are smaller than most other members of the genus Panthera, they are able to take large prey due to their massive skulls and powerful jaw muscles.

Depending on the region, leopards may mate all year round. The estrous cycle lasts about 46 days and the female usually is in heat for 6–7 days. Gestation lasts for 90 to 105 days. Cubs are usually born in a litter of 2–4 cubs. Mortality of cubs is estimated at 41–50% during the first year. Females give birth in a cave, crevice among boulders, hollow tree, or thicket to make a den. Cubs are born with closed eyes, which open four to nine days after birth. The fur of the young tends to be longer and thicker than that of adults. Their pelage is also more gray in colour with less defined spots. Around three months of age, the young begin to follow the mother on hunts. At one year of age, leopard young can probably fend for themselves, but remain with the mother for 18–24 months. The average typical life span of a leopard is between 12 and 17 years.

Social Organization and Behavior: The leopard is solitary and territorial, as are several other felids; individuals associate appreciably only in the mating season, though mothers may continue to interact with their offspring even after weaning. Mothers have been observed sharing kills with their offspring when they cannot obtain any meal. Aggressive encounters are rare, typically limited to defending territories from intruders.

Males occupy territories that often overlap with a few smaller female territories, probably as a strategy to enhance access to females. Female live with their cubs in territories that overlap extensively – probably due to the association between mothers and their offspring. There may be a few other fluctuating territories, belonging to young individuals. It is not clear if male territories tend to overlap among themselves as much as those of females do. Individuals will try to drive away intruders of the same sex.

Reproduction:

Threats

Hunting of Indian leopards for the illegal wildlife trade is the biggest threat to their survival. They are also threatened by loss of habitat and fragmentation of formerly connected populations, and various levels of human–leopard conflict in human–dominated landscapes.

Poaching

A significant immediate threat to wild leopard populations is the illegal trade in poached skins and body parts between India, Nepal and China. The governments of these countries have failed to implement adequate enforcement response, and wildlife crime remained a low priority in terms of political commitment and investment for years. There are well-organised gangs of professional poachers, who move from place to place and set up camp in vulnerable areas. Skins are rough-cured in the field and handed over to dealers, who send them for further treatment to Indian tanning centres. Buyers choose the skins from dealers or tanneries and smuggle them through a complex interlinking network to markets outside India, mainly in China.

In May 2010, the Wildlife Protection Society of India estimated that in India at least 3,189 leopards were killed since 1994. For every tiger skin, there are at least seven leopard skins in the haul.

Human–leopard conflict Expansion of agriculturally used land, encroachment of humans and their livestock into protected areas are main factors contributing to habitat loss and decrease of wild prey. As a result, leopards approach human settlements, where they are tempted to prey on dogs, pigs and goats — domestic livestock, which constitutes an important part of their diet, if they live on the periphery of human habitations. Human–leopard conflict situations ensue, and have increased in recent years. In retaliation for attacks on livestock, leopards are shot, poisoned and trapped in snares. The leopards are considered to be unwanted trespassers by villagers. Conservationists criticize these actions, claiming that people are encroaching on the leopard's native habitat. India's Forest Department is entitled to set up traps only in cases of a leopard having attacked humans. If only the presence of a crowd of people prevents the leopard from escaping, then the crowd has to be dispersed and the animal allowed to escape.

As urban areas expanded, the natural habitats of leopards shrunk resulting in leopards venturing into urbanized areas due to easy access of domestic food sources. Karnataka has a high number of such conflicts.

Conservation Strategies:

Panthera pardus is listed in CITES Appendix I. Despite India and Nepal being contracting parties to CITES, national legislation of both countries does not incorporate and address the spirit and concerns of CITES. Trained human resources, basic facilities and effective networks for control of poaching and trade in wildlife are lacking. In India for conservation of Leopard it is kept under schedule-I of the Wildlife act-1972.

8. Conservation plan for Four horned Antelope(Tetracerus quadricornis):

The four-horned antelope (Tetracerus quadricornis), or chousingha, is a small antelope found in India and Nepal. It is sole member of the genus Tetracerus and three subspecies are recognized. This antelope has four horns, which distinguish it from most other bovids, which have two horns.One pair of horns is located between the ears, and the other on the forehead. The posterior horns are always longer than the anterior horns, which might be mere fur- covered studs. The four-horned antelope is diurnal (active mainly during the day). Though solitary by nature, four-horned antelopes may form loose groups of three to five–with one or more adults, sometimes accompanied by juveniles. This elusive antelope feeds on grasses, herbs, shrubs, foliage, flowers and fruits. It needs to drink water frequently; as such it stays in places near water sources. The breeding behaviour of the four-horned antelope has not been well studied. The age at which they reach sexual maturity and the season when mating occurs have not been understood well. Four-horned antelopes tend to inhabit areas with significant grass cover or heavy undergrowth, and avoid human settlements. Earlier common throughout deciduous forests in India, the antelope now occurs in widely disjunct, small populations. Most of the populations are in India, and lower numbers can be found in adjoining Nepal. The four-horned antelope is threatened by the loss of its natural habitat due to agricultural expansion. Moreover, the unusual four-horned skull and the horns have been a popular target for trophy hunters. The four-horned antelope is classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Bovidae

Subfamily: Bovinae

Genus: Tetracerus

Species: quadricornis

IUCN: (VU) ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES listing: Appendix III (Nepal population) Local names: Chousingha Life span: 10-15 Years Gestation: 240 days Height: 55-64 cm Weight: 17-22 Kg Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent.

Morphology:

The four-horned antelope is one of the smallest Asian bovids. The number of its horns distinguishes it from most of the other bovids, that have two horns. The four-horned antelope stands 55–64 centimetres) at the shoulder and weighs 17–22 kilograms; the head-and-body length is typically between 80 and 110 centimetres. Sexual dimorphism is not very notable, though only males possess horns. Slender with thin legs and a short tail, the four-horned antelope has a yellowish brown to reddish coat. The underparts and the insides of the legs are white. Facial features include black markings on the muzzle and behind the ears. A black stripe marks the outer surface of each leg.

Females have four teats far back on the abdomen. The hair feels coarse, more like that of a deer than the glossy hair typical of antelopes. The fetlocks are marked with white patches.

One pair of horns is located between the ears, and the other on the forehead. The posterior horns are always longer than the anterior horns, which might be mere fur- covered studs. While the posterior horns each measures 8–12 centimetres, the anterior ones measure 2–5 centimetres. Horns emerge at 10 to 14 months. These horns measure nearly 4.5–5 centimetres. Two deer species, the Indian muntjac and the hog deer, can be confused with this antelope. The four-horned antelope, however, lacks their antlers.

Ecology and Behavior:

The four-horned antelope is diurnal (active mainly during the day), though it mainly rests or ruminates in dense undergrowth at noon. Though solitary by nature, the four-horned antelope may form loose groups of three to five. Groups consist of one or more adults, sometimes accompanied by juveniles. Males and females hardly interact, except in the mating season.

The antelope is shy and elusive. When alarmed, it stands motionless and may nervously leap away from the danger or even sprint. It often conceals itself in tall grasses to escape predators. The use of alarm calls to alert others is not common because the antelope tries to avoid the attention of predators. However, in extreme cases, these calls may be used to warn predators that they have been identified. Adults mark vegetation in their territories with a colourless secretion of preorbital glands that soon condenses to form a white film. They maintain multiple latrine sites where piles of their pellet droppings are formed by regular use. Latrine sites can be confused with those of the barking deer but the pellets are longer and larger in four-horned antelopes. Submissive display consists of shrinking the body, lowering the head and pulling the ears back. Predators of four-horned antelopes include tigers, leopards, and dholes.

Diet:

The four-horned antelope feeds on grasses, herbs, shrubs, foliage, flowers and fruits. They prefer to feed on family Cyperaceae; genera Axonopus, Cynodon, Digitaria, Echinochloa, Panicum, Sehima and Sporobolus; and the species Imperata cylindrica, Ottochloa nodosa, Pseudanthistria umbellata and Themeda cymbaria. The shrub Grewia hirsuta is frequently eaten. Preferred herbs include Helichrysum, Indigofera and Tinospora species and Leucas aspera. The four-horned antelope feeds on the leaves of trees such as Cordia wallichii, Emblica officinalis, Randia dumetorum and Zizyphus xylopyrus. Grasses comprise nearly 29 percent of the diet, followed by foliage from trees. Among trees they prefer for Zizyphus mauritiana, Acacia nilotica, A. leucophloea and A. catechu. Babool flowers were frequently eaten. The antelope often associates with langurs under fruiting trees. The antelope is wary when feeding, often raising its head and looking about its vicinity. The four-horned antelope needs to drink water frequently; as such it stays in places near water sources.

Reproduction:

Breeding behaviour of the four-horned antelope has not been well studied. The age at which sexual maturity is gained is doubted; two captive females had their first parturition at less than two years. The breeding season probably lasts from May to July, and from June to August. The male approaches the female in a relaxed gait, giving out low coughs. The two may kneel and push against each other with the necks intertwined. The male makes a few short mounting attempts; the female may be foraging all the while without any reaction. Gestation lasts about eight months, followed by the birth of one or two calves. The newborn has a head-and-body length of 42 to 46 centimetres, and weighs 0.7 to 1.1 kg. Juveniles are kept concealed for the first few weeks of birth. Juveniles remain with their mothers for about a year.

Threats & Conservation:

The four-horned antelope is threatened by the loss of its natural habitat due to agricultural expansion. Moreover, the unusual four-horned skull and the horns have been a popular target for trophy hunters. In India, the species is protected under Schedule I the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and the Nepalese population of this species is listed in CITES Appendix III. The four- horned antelope is classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN).

Govt. of India has taken imitative for its protection and is now protected in many protected areas of India. Major protected areas across India where four-horned antelopes occur include: Gir National Park (Gujarat); Bandhavgarh National Park, Bori Wildlife Sanctuary, Kanha National Park, Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, Panna Tiger Reserve, Pench Tiger Reserve, Sanjay National Park, Satpura National Park (Madhya Pradesh); Tadoba Andhari Reserve (Maharashtra); Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranthambore National Park, Rangayyanadurga wildlife sanctuary (Karnataka), and Sariska Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan).

9. Conservation plan for Moschiola meminna (Indian Chevrotain):

India’s smallest deer, the Mouse deer, also known as Indian Chevrotain (Moschiola meminna), is a very timid and nocturnal animal difficult to spot in the wild. This species was widespread and successful from the Oligocene (34 million years ago) to the Miocene (about 5 million years ago), but has remained almost unchanged over that time and remains as an example of primitive ruminant form. Chevrotains have a four-chambered stomach to ferment tough plant foods, but the third chamber is poorly developed. Like other ruminants, they lack upper incisors, and give birth to only a single young, rather than having pig-like litters. The dental formula of chevrotains is the same as that of some smaller deer.

Classification: Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Artiodactyla Family: Tragulidae Genus: Moschiola Species: meminna

IUCN: (LC) ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES listing: Appendix I Local names: Mouse deer Life span: 10-14 Years Gestation: 150-160 days Height: 35-40 cm Weight: 22-33 Pounds Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent.

Morphology: Modern tragulids, in general, stand 20-40 cm high at the shoulder and are sexual dimorphic as males are smaller than females. No sexual dimorphism of skull and skeleton measurements is found in Moschiola meminna. Moschiola memmina has an average body mass of 3 kg. Limbs of of Tragulids are short and slender with four-toed feet. The fur color of tragulids differs among species. M. meminna has a pelage that is medium to dark brown on the back and white on the belly, and has four or five light longitudinal stripes or spot-rows on the back. All tragulids species share skull feature of a relatively straight skull axis, a closed postorbital bar and the absence of horns or antlers. Upper incisors in tragulids are lost, the upper canine in males are enlarged and ever-growing used for intraspecific combats. Dental formula for Tragulidae is 0/3 1/1 3/3 3/3 = 34. Nocturnal Indian chevrotains (Moschiola memmina) have large eyes. M. meminna differs from other three species by having anteorbital vacuity between maxillae, frontal and lacrimale. Its bulla ossea is more rounded as well.

Ecology and Behavior: The Indian Chevrotain is found in tropical deciduous and moist evergreen and semi-evergreen forests of the Peninsular Indian hills, plains, and plateaux, extending into montane forests up to around 1,850 m elevation. It is reported to favour rocky habitats, grass-covered rocky hill-sides and forest, and it often occurs along forest streams and rivers. It also occurs in some anthropogenically disturbed areas, such as plantations, rural gardens, and degraded forest. Very little is known about the ecology and behavior of the Indian Chevrotain with much of the information being in the form of anecdotal observations and sight records. Like other forest ruminants, adults are mostly solitary except at the time of courtship. During the day, Chevrotains stay concealed in dens that may be in hollows at the base of trees or in rocky crevices. They are also reported to be able to climb up sloping tree boles. Occasionally, they may also be encountered resting in the leaf litter of the forest floor where their dappled pelage acts as an effective camouflage as long as the animal stays immobile. If one chances upon it while it is resting thus, the animal allows the observer to approach quite close before suddenly rushing off into the forest undergrowth or into a well-chosen hiding spot. Their activity appears to be mostly crepuscular and nocturnal. Chevrotains are of a shy and retiring disposition, avoiding open areas and ready to scurry away at the least hint of alarm. They forage for herbs and shrubs and fallen fruit from the forest floor. Indian Chevrotain eats the fruits of species such as Terminalia bellerica, Gmelina arborea, and Garuga pinnata, common in the deciduous forests of south India. The species is reported to have a gestation period of around five months. Females are reported to bring forth their young, usually twins, in their dens or hides, at the end of the rains and commencement of the cold season.

Diet: Chevrotains are able to digest grasses and leaves that are indigestible to most non-ruminants. However, small ungulates such as chevrotains can afford to eat more selectively because they need less food than their larger ruminant cousins that must consume large quantities of food daily. As a result, the chevrotain diet tends to favor young shoots, forbs, fruits that have fallen to the ground, and seeds, in addition To occasional leaves and grasses. Some chevrotains have been observed eating arthropods and small animals.

Reproduction: The reproductive biology of most chevrotain species is poorly known, though most are polygamous. Chevrotains reach sexual maturity sometime between five to 26 months. When a female enters estrus, males seek out and follow her while making cry-like vocalizations. In the case of water chevrotains, the male's cry causes the female to stop moving, allowing the male to lick her genital area. Among greater and lesser Malay mouse deer, males also stroke females with a special gland located between the rami of the male's lower jaw. After repeating a pattern of cries and physical contact, copulation takes place. Female greater and lesser Malay mouse deer can mate 85–155 minutes after giving birth; as a result, they are capable of almost continuous pregnancy through most of their adult lives. Gestation lasts six to nine months, depending on the species, and females give birth to one young a year. The female has four mammae, leading some researchers to suggest that chevrotains may be capable of larger litters. Females ingest the placenta after giving birth. Offspring are precocial, capable of standing within an hour after birth, yet the young remain hidden on the forest floor. Females do not stay with young, except for brief feeding/suckling periods. Young are weaned at three to six months and disperse from the mother's home range when they reach sexual maturity between nine to 26 months. Individuals live to an age of 11– 13 years. Threats & Conservation: Chevrotain species are threatened by hunting and habitat destruction. The IUCN Red List classifies only one subspecies as Endangered, and the water chevrotain as Data Deficient.

10. Conservation plan for Python molurus: Python molurus is a large non-venomous python species found in many tropic and subtropic areas of the Indian subcontinent and South-east Asia. It is known by the common names Indian python, black-tailed python and Indian rock python. The species is limited to Southern Asia. It is generally lighter colored than the Burmese python and reaches usually 3 meters.

Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Reptilia

Order: Squamata

Family: Pythonidae Genus: Python Species: molurus

IUCN: (NT) ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES listing: Appendix I Local names: Ajgar Life span: 16 Years Gestation: 60-90 days Height: 7.6 m Weight: 137 kg Native: Native to the Indian Subcontinent.

Morphology: Indian pythons are divided into two recognized subspecies, which can be distinguished by physical characteristics. It can grow to lengths of about 7.6 m, and can weigh as much as 137 kg. Indian pythons, P. molurusmolurus, stays smaller, reaching a maximum of about 6.4 m in length, and weighing as much as 91 kg. The hides of both subspecies are marked with a rectangular mosaic type pattern that runs the full length of the animal. P. molurus molurus has similar markings with light brown and tan rectangles placed over a typically cream background. P. molurus molurus only has a partial arrow-shaped marking on the top of the head. Each scale of P. molurus molurus is a single color.

Indian pythons are dimorphic with females being longer and heavier than males. Males have larger cloacal spurs, or vestigial limbs, than do females. The cloacal spurs are two projections, one on either side of the anal vent, that are thought to be extensions of posterior limbs.

Ecology and Behavior: Indian pythons are found in a variety of habitats including rainforests, river valleys, woodlands, scrublands, grassy marshes, and semi rocky foothills. They are usually found in habitats with areas that can provide sufficient cover. This species is never found very far from water sources, and seems to prefer very damp terrain. Lethargic and slow moving even in its native habitat, they exhibit timidity and rarely try to attack even when attacked. Locomotion is usually rectilinear, with the body moving in a straight line. They are excellent swimmers and are quite at home in water. They can be wholly submerged in water for many minutes if necessary, but usually prefer to remain near the bank.

Diet: Python molurus is carnivorous. Its diet consists mostly of live prey. Its staples are rodents and other mammals. A small portion of its diet consists of birds, amphibians, and reptiles.

Reproduction: Python molurus reaches sexual maturity between 2-3 years of age provided the proper body weight is met. At this time courting behavior may begin. During courtship, the male wraps his body around the female and repeatedly flicks his tongue across her head and body. Once they align their cloacas, the male uses his vestigial legs to massage the female and stimulate her. Copulation ensues, with the female raising her tail to allow the male to insert one hemipenis (he has two) into the female's cloaca. This process lasts between 5-30 minutes. Approximately 3-4 months later, the female will lay up to 100 eggs, each weighing as much as 207 g. At this time the female generally coils around the eggs in preparation for an incubation period. Incubation lasts between 2-3 months.

Threats & Conservation:

Indian Rock Python is one of the most threatened species due to- Road kill mortality; killing due to conflict in agricultural fields and around water bodies due to its large size; due to misidentification and confusion with venomous species Russell's Viper which shared almost same kind of habitat. Indian Rock Python has been considered to be one of the most precious species to provide beautiful and tough snake skin and for this its trade is high in various parts of country. Habitat loss is one more reason because this species prefers wet surrounding or long time stable water bodies for its activities. Due to destruction and filling of medium and large waterbody habitat of Python remains no more natural and it has to migrate from the area. Like all Pythons, Indian Rock Python is always demanded by foreign and Indian keepers for pet trade.

The Indian Python is classified as Lower Risk/ Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (v2.3, 1996). This listing indicates that it may become threatened with extinction and is in need of frequent reassessment.

11. Conservation plan for Bengal monitor lizard (Varanus bengalensis):

The name of “Monitor” bestowed upon these creatures has a curious origin, owing to a ridiculous etymological mistake. The Arabic term for lizard is “Ouaran”. This has been wrongly taken to mean warning lizard, hence the Latin word Monitor. Geographical Distribution: Although called the Bengal Monitor, this species is among the most widely distributed of varanid lizards. It is found in river valleys in eastern Iran, Afghanistan, western Pakistan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Myanmar.

This large lizard is mainly terrestrial, and its length can range from about 61 to 175 cm from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail. Young monitors may be more arboreal, but adults mainly hunt on the ground, preying mainly on arthropods, but also taking small terrestrial vertebrates, ground birds, eggs and fish. Although large monitors have few predators apart from humans who hunt them for meat, younger individuals are hunted by many predators.

Classification: Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Subphylum: Vertebrata Class: Reptilia Order: Squamat Suborder: Autarchoglossa Family: Varanidae Genus: Varanus Species: bengalensis IUCN: (LC) ver 3.1. IWPA: Schedule I CITES: Appendix I Local name: Bengal monitor lizard Life span: 15 Years Length: 175 cm

Morphology: The Bengal monitor has been said to reach nearly 175 cm with a snout-to-vent length (SVL) of 75 cm and a tail of 100 cm. Males are generally larger than females. Heavy individuals may weigh nearly 7.2 kg and obese captives even more and the males grow to greater weight. The number of ventral scales varies, decreasing from 108 in the west to 75 in the east (Java).

Young monitor lizards are more colourful than adults. Young have a series of dark crossbars on the neck, throat and back. The belly is white, banded with dark crossbars and are spotted with grey or yellow (particularly in the eastern part of the range). On the dorsal surface of young monitors, there are a series of yellow spots with dark transverse bars connecting them. As they mature, the ground colour becomes light brown or grey, and dark spots give them a speckled appearance.

Bengal monitors have external nostril openings (nares) that is slit-like and oriented near horizontal, and positions between the eye and the tip of the snout. The nares can be closed at will, especially to keep away debris or water. The scales of the skin are rougher in patches and on the sides, they have minute pits, especially well distributed in males. These scales with micropores have glandular structures in the underlying dermal tissue and produce a secretion which may be a pheromone-like substance. Like other varanids, Bengal monitors have a forked tongue that is protruded in the manner of snakes. The function is mainly sensory, and is not very involved in the transport of food down the throat. Bengal monitors have fat deposits in the tail and body that serve them in conditions when prey is not easily available.

Habitat: Many different types like (Rain) forests, valleys, farmlands, desert like areas and so on. It seems to be most common in farmlands and dry, open forests.

Food: Although these creatures are relatively large in size, especially for a lizard, they mostly feed on insects such as ants and beetles scorpions, They also eat animals such as ground birds, and their eggs, fish, frogs, snakes, other lizards, snails and small mammals like rodents. Monitors are reported to have a very special preference for eggs.

Ecology & Behavior: Mainly ground dweller, but is a very good climber as well. Bengal Monitors are usually solitary and usually found on the ground although the young are often. Seen on trees. They shelter and spend nights in burrows or crevices in rocks and buildings, make use also of abandoned termite mounds. In the night their body temperature drops below ambient. In the morning they raise their body temperatures by basking before commencing activity and for this reason they are rarely active early in the morning and most active in the afternoons when temperatures are highest. Mean active body temperature is 34.50C.

Threats: The species is facing threat due to human activity. The species is still hunted for skin, oil for medicines for body ailments and meat for food. In some places, they are killed thinking that these animals as poisonous. Increased road network and traffic also causing accidental death. The habitat destruction and alteration due to expansion of agriculture and urbanization also posing serious threats.

Conservation Measures:

➢ Habitat improvement works will be carried out by planting bushes and shrubs in surrounding areas. ➢ Natural habitat places will be preserved in the surrounding. ➢ Speed limits of vehicles will be controlled to avoid accidental deaths. ➢ The people living in the surrounding area and employee of the company would be motivated towards the protection of the animal. Motivation will lead to timely information to the concerned authorities about any threat to wild life or any cases of pouching/hunting.

CHAPTER 5

ACTION PLAN AND FINANCIAL PROJECTION FOR CONSERVATION PLAN

5.1 Introduction What if a few species of wildlife become endangered or extinct? How are we concerned if the Indian Cheetah has been lost forever or the Asiatic lion is precariously perched on the verge of extinction? Why should we spend crores of rupees to protect the tiger? The answers to these questions of what, how and why should form the basis for creating conservation awareness among the public can understanding of the importance of biological diversity of inter- relationships in nature, of the sustenance and stability of ecosystems and of man’s impact on the natural world. Protected areas and threatened species could most effectively be safeguarded if local people considered it in their own interest to do so. Working with rather than against local people has become a major working principle for IUCN.

5.2 Action plan 5.2.1 Non-formal Education Conservation education and awareness will be imparted both at the formal and non-formal levels. At the formal level, it will be given at school, colleges and university levels. Formal education, in spite of all the curriculum development and introduction of the study of ecology, wildlife and conservation at the school and college levels, however, largely remains text book and examination oriented. Because of the situation, non-formal education becomes all the more necessary for creating the right kind of awareness and attitude among people at all levels- children, teenagers, adults, family groups, teachers, administrators, politicians and policymakers. To achieve this some local tours of school and college students will be arranged to nearby National Parks.

5.2.2 Institutional Infrastructure The prime requisite for building up an understanding and awareness about wildlife and conservation is to develop an appreciation, respect and love for nature. Most people lack the curiosity to know even the names of animals and plants they come across in their day-to-day life. Development of an inquisitive mind, a keen sense of observation and curiosity about the fauna and flora are, therefore, very important. Concern for conservation can only emanate from a love for nature and awareness about the interdependence of all species of animals and plants, including the man. To arouse curiosity about the wildlife in the young mind some quiz and essay competitions will be arranged in the schools and colleges of the buffer zone and some nearby areas . 5.2.3 Indian Tradition of Conservation The theme of conservation, wildlife and reverence for life is reflected in some of the exquisite images in Indian art paintings, sculpture, architecture and decorative art. The most wide- ranging wild life imagery is found in Indian miniature paintings. Early literatures like the Panchatantra and Hitopadesha contain animal fables that have been used to preach both wisdom and morals. The long term tradition and abiding faith in conservation of nature is vividly seen in recent times also like the Chipko and Appiko movements. These conservation themes will be popularized through pamphlets and posters.

5.2.4 Role of the Individual Each individual should develop a personal ethic towards nature and wildlife which could pave the way for commitment and conviction not to destroy wildlife particularly that of not considering hunting as a sport, nor to use products made out of skins or other parts of endangered animals. Unless these products are boycotted by their users, the clandestine killing and poaching of wildlife at the hands of unscrupulous people will continue. Everyone can play important role in spreading the message of conservation among their friends, family and community at the large.

5.2.5 Eco-Development Works: People in and around the forest area generally are hostile against the forest department and its staff, because they are prevented from taking out timber and other forest products illegally. Such antagonistic behavior is mainly because little effort is made to meet their genuine demands either from outside the forest area or from the forest area but in a sustainable manner. Regular interaction with them with agreement for sustainable utilization of forest resources combined with some incentives can completely change their indifferent or even un-concerned attitude to conservative attitude.

5.2.6 Checks and control on the Movement of Vehicle: Due to movement of vehicles injury to animals and reptiles may take place. For this reason speed limit of vehicles will be fixed and operators will be educated and advised regularly to drive vehicle safely and slowly. All operators will also be advised to stop the vehicle on seeing such reptiles or animals and let it go away before moving the vehicle further.

5.2.7 Pressure horn: Noise generated by pressure horn disturbs the wildlife and forces them to leave the place. No pressure horn will be fixed on vehicle plying in the area. All the drivers will be advised to make minimum use of horn while working hours.

5.2.8 Vehicles head lights: Efforts will be made to cover the lights suitably with paint so that strong beam of head light is not formed and light falls in front of the vehicle only.

5.2.9 People Participation: With the help of the local people and employees of the Company watch will be kept on the wild life as well as illegal tree felling. Forest and police department will be informed if such incident occurs, to take legal action against the offenders. For this they will be trained for motivation.

5.2.10 Encourage local villagers to grow trees on their on their field bounds/court yards: In consultation with Forest Department the company will provide some finance, to grow saplings of tree species, having importance for wood, small timber and fuel wood to distribute to the villagers. Bamboo will be another important species with a lot of environmental and economic value. This will no doubt will help reduce dependence of people on RF forest; as a result the ecological condition of the area will improve so the wild life will be attracted to this area.

5.2.11 Reducing Environmental Pollution: To keep the environment frees from smoke, cooking gas cylinders will be provided to all the project workers particularly. To control pollution from project measure outlined in EMP will be followed.

5.2.12 Provide employment to the villagers: On the basis of their suitability, jobs in project will be provided to the nearby villagers. As a result their economic condition will improve. This well keep them busy also, so they will not be tempted/compelled to cause destruction to forest which will help improve the status of wildlife.

5.3.2 Green Belt in Core Zone About 5.8 Ha. (33% of the total area of 17.55 Ha.) has been proposed under Green Belt. • The plant should be a fast growing species • It should have deep root system • Should bear the leaves for a longer period • Should be a native species • Should have good survival rate. With these above considerations following, local plant species will be taken for green belt plantation.

5.3.3 Plantation in the Buffer zone Trees will be planted in the buffer zone also. This plantation will be done at selected places only and only local species will be used in the plantation. Some of the tree species included will be Saja (Terminalia tomentosa), Baheda (Terminalia bellerica), Bija (Pterocarpus masupium), Bargad (Ficus benghalensis), Peepal (Ficus religiosa), Mahua (Madhuca latifolia), Sal (Shorea robusta), etc. Care will be taken to include some fruit bearing trees like Gular (Ficus glomerata), Aonla (Emblica officinalis), Aam (Mangifera indica) and such trees to provide food to the herbivores which in turn will be the food source of the carnivores. Water, particularly during drier seasons, becomes the most important factor to all types of wild animals including the mammals, birds and reptiles. If water is available safely, then all other factors become secondary for the presence and survival of the wild life in any forested area. Places suitable for mini watersheds will be identified in the core as well as in the buffer zone to store rainwater. Further, to make water available at all the times, throughout the year, some of these water holes will be recharged through artificial means. Proper slope will be given to approach these water sources so that the wild animals will be able to drink water without any difficulty. Proper cover through vegetation or any other type of even artificial cover will be developed near to these water sources so that the prey species will be able to hide themselves from the predators, at the time of approaching the water sources. To attract the birds, plants yielding food to the birds will be planted on priority basis. If water and food are available to the birds without any anthropogenic disturbances the area can become an ideal place for bird watching.

5.4 Financial Projection Rs.20.00 Lakhs has been allocated towards conservation of scheduled fauna in the area for the implementation of conservation proposal. Table 5.1: Budget for Conservation/Management Plan Sl. Component Budget in Rs No. (Lakh) 1 Planting of trees groves in surrounding area 2.40

2 Promotion of agro forest in villages planting fruits trees 2.80

3 Plantation of shelterbelt along and canal side in surrounding village 2.80 and maintenance 4 Construction of water hole in strategic location 2.00

5 Development of pastures on the Panchayat land 2.80

6 Awareness generation of labors and local people 3.20

7 Study of impact of project on wildlife and habitation 4.00

TOTAL 20.0

Table 5.2 Financial Projection (yearly) Year I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X Amount in 3.0 2.80 2.80 4.20 2.90 2.20 0.80 0.50 0.40 0.40 lakh Rs.

Table: 5.3 Year Wise Plan and Budget (Rs. Lakhs) Sl. Component/Year I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X Total in No. Lakhs 1 PLANTING OF TREES GROVES IN 50 50 50 40 20 20 10 0 0 0 2.40 SURROUNDING AREA 2 PROMOTION OF AGRO FOREST IN 70 50 50 40 30 20 20 0 0 0 2.80 VILLAGES PLANTING FRUITS TREES 3 PLANTATION OF SHELTERBELT ALONG 50 50 50 30 30 30 0 0 20 20 2.80 AND CANAL SIDE IN SURROUNDING VILLAGE AND MAINTENANCE

4 CONSTRUCTION OF WATER HOLE IN 40 40 40 40 40 0 0 0 0 0 2.00 STRATEGIC LOCATION 5 DEVELOPMENT OF PASTURES ON THE 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 30 20 20 2.80 PANCHAYAT LAND 6 AWARENESS GENERATION OF LABORS 60 60 60 40 40 20 20 20 0 0 3.20 AND LOCAL PEOPLE 7 STUDY OF IMPACT OF PROJECT ON 0 0 0 200 100 100 0 0 0 0 4.00 WILD LIFE AND HABITATION

TOTAL 300 280 280 420 290 220 80 50 40 40 20.00

The cost of conservation plan will be borne by project proponent and plan will be implemented by Forest Department (Wildlife wing). The provision under different component is tentative which can be modified/reallocated by approval of Chief Wildlife Warden. CHAPTER 6 BIBLIOGRAPHY

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