Nature Conservation Division Department of Forests Ministry of Agriculture Royal Government of

TIGER ACTION PLAN FOR THE KINGDOM OF BHUTAN 2006-2015

In collaboration with WWF Bhutan Program for a living planet ®

TIGER ACTION PLAN FOR THE KINGDOM OF BHUTAN 2006-2015

Nature Conservation Division Department of Forests Ministry of Agriculture Royal Government of Bhutan

In collaboration with WWF Bhutan Program BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015

CONTENTS

Foreword By His Excellency, Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup Ministry Of Agriculture, Royal Government Of Bhutan v Acknowledgement vii

1. INTRODUCTION 1

2. STATUS OF TIGER CONSERVATION IN BHUTAN 3 2.1. Tiger Conservation Program 3 2.2. Tiger Population And Distribution 4 2.3. The National And Global Significance Of Tiger Conservation In Bhutan 5

3. OPPORTUNITIES 7 3.1. Extensive Habitat 7 3.2. Legislation 7 3.3. Inaccessible Habitat And Wide Distribution Of The Tiger 8 3.4. Pro-conservation Development Strategy And Stable Political Conditions 8

4 KEY THREATS 9 4.1. Commercial Poaching And Wildlife Trade 9 4.2. Fragmentation Of Habitat 9 4.3. Reconciling Tiger Conservation And Human Needs 10 4.4. Lack Of Public Awareness Of The Tiger Conservation Issue 11 4.5. Inadequate Database And Data Management 11 4.6. Lack Of Trained Manpower To Implement Conservation Initiatives 12

5. ACTION PLAN 13 5.1. Goal 13 5.2. Objectives 13 A. Species Conservation 14 B. Habitat Conservation 16 C. Human Wildlife Conflict Management 18 D. Education And Awareness Program 19 E. Regional Cooperation 20 F. Human Resources Development 20

6. BUDGET AND WORKPLAN 23

REFERENCE 31

ANNEXURE 1 - HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT 33 BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 iv BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 v

FOREWORD

Guru Rinpoche brought Buddhism to Bhutan riding on the back of a flying tigress. The tiger is one of our four protector animals in the "Tag Seng Chung Druk" quartet (the other three animals being the mythical snow lion, garuda and dragon). Thus the tiger is a symbol of great reverence in Bhutanese society. Ecologically, it stands at the top of the food chain, and its presence in the forest symbolizes the well-being of many other species living with it. For all these reasons, the survival of the tiger is vital for the very existence of every Bhutanese.

It gives me immense pleasure to introduce the 'Tiger Action Plan for the Kingdom of Bhutan 2006-2015' that was put together by Bhutanese and international tiger experts during a meeting in Paro from 14-16 September 2004. The content of the Tiger Action Plan (TAP) was discussed during the conference and post-conference consultations with some of the world's best tiger experts. This document is the synthesis of their wisdom, knowledge and expertise, and signifies yet another commitment by the Royal Government of Bhutan towards tiger conservation.

The TAP has three main components viz. species conservation, habitat conservation and human-wildlife conflict management. It outlines some of the enabling environments which are necessary for its successful implementation. Environmental integrity is one of the four pillars of "Gross National Happiness", our development philosophy instituted by His Majesty the Druk Gyalpo. Successful implementation of the TAP will no doubt contribute significantly towards this. Ensuring the tiger's survival in the wild means protecting its habitat, prey species and a myriad other species, ecosystems and processes.

I want to express my thanks to the Save the Tiger Fund, and our long-time conservation partner, WWF, for rendering assistance in this venture. Many thanks also go to all the international and Bhutanese participants at the meeting for putting this important document together.

I wish the Department of Forests every success in the implementation of the TAP, and in ensuring that future generations of Bhutanese will continue to hear the tiger growl in the pristine forests of Bhutan, in very natural conditions of abundant habitat and prey.

Tashi Delek.

Sangay Ngedup Minister Ministry of Agriculture BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 vi BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 vii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to thank H.E. Hon'ble Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup, Minister of Agriculture for his foreword that exemplifies his continued support for conservation.

We would like acknowledge numerous persons particularly the participants of the International Conference held in Paro from 14-16 September 2004 for their valuable comments and assistances received in shaping this important document - the Tiger Action Plan (TAP). Comments were received from AJT Johnsingh, Eric Wikramanayake, Fraincine Madden, John Seidensticker, Per Wegge, Tim O'Brien, Tshewang Wangchuk, Ullas Karanth from the international participants and Sangay Wangchuk, Karma Tshering, Deki Yonten, Ngawang Norbu, Sherub, Sonam Choden, Bap Pema of NCD and Chado Tenzin and Vijay Moktan of WWF Bhutan added more comments in the discussions that followed.

Sangay of NCD compiled the materials from the Tiger Conference in Paro. Tshewang Wangchuk of WWF International rendered assistance in refining the contents of the TAP. Trishna Gurung of WWF International assisted in editing and layout of the document at FORMAT Graphics. The maps were produced in NCD with help from Kinley Gyeltshen and Kinga Deki of NCD. Kuensel, WWF, Natural History Museum of Bhutan, and NCD provided the photographs. Save the Tiger Fund and WWF provided financial and technical assistance for the meeting that has made this document possible.

The Nature Conservation Division and WWF wish to thank these individuals, agencies, and all the participants of the meeting who contributed materials and support for this document. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 1

Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, the Government of Bhutan (RGoB) is strongly Kingdom of Bhutan, with an area of 38,394 committed to environmental conservation as km2 (RGoB 2002) represents a region that reflected in various national policies and exhibits one of the richest diversities of wild legislations. One of the most important plant and animal life on earth. Biological commitments of the 1974 Forest Policy has inventories have so far recorded some 7,000 been to maintain 60 percent of the country vascular plants, 770 species of birds and 160 under forest cover, in perpetuity. This clause species of mammals (MoA 1998). Three main is now embodied in the new Constitution that biophysical features are responsible for this was released for nationwide debate in 2005. incredible biodiversity. First, the country Further, several factors provide optimum straddles two major bio-geographical realms, conditions for the continued conservation of the Palearctic characterized by temperate and the kingdom's rich environmental resources, alpine regions of the central and northern mountains, and the Indo-Malayan characterized by tropical and sub-tropical ecosystems of the lowlands and southern foothills. Second, climate and altitude vary between two extremes. Annual rainfall ranges from 5,000 mm in the southern part of the country to less than 500 mm in the alpine highlands, and elevations range from 100 meters above sea level (masl) in the southern foothills to more than 7,000 masl in the northern mountains. The eastern part of the Himalayan region receives more rainfall than the western part and hence vegetation and treeline extends higher in the former. Lastly, over 72.5 percent of the country's geographical area is covered with undisturbed forests.

Bhutan's socio-political conditions have been, and continue to be, favorable for the conservation of biological diversity. The Royal Much of Bhutan is marked by thick forests BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 2

namely; 1) a small population of less than one a national program with the creation of the million, 2) a Buddhist ethic that strongly Department of Forests in 1952. supports nature conservation, 3) the Subsequently, it was enhanced by the integration of conservation into mainstream establishment, in 1966, of the country's first economic development as one of the four protected area, the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary pillars of Gross National Happiness (GNH), (now Royal Manas National Park) in southern prime indicator of Bhutan's development Bhutan, followed by the enactment of the philosophy, 4) the "middle path" conservation Bhutan Forest Act in 1969. Until 1984, all approach of avoiding the extremes of severe wildlife management responsibilities were protectionism and outright destruction, and 5) vested in the various territorial divisions of the Bhutan's rugged topography that makes many Department of Forests. In 1984, two parts of the country inaccessible, and therefore functional entities, the Northern and Southern out of reach of environmental degradation. Wildlife Circles, were established under the administrative and technical assistance of the Nature conservation as a national program Department of Forests to oversee wildlife pre-dates planned development, which only conservation and protected area management began in 1961 with the advent of the Five- activities. In 1992, the two circles were Year Development Plans. Traditional integrated to form the Nature Conservation conservation ethics existed with the Division that currently functions as the nodal protection of important forests and catchment agency for overall planning, coordination, areas as the abodes of deities and spirits. implementation and technical support of nature This practice still exists in many parts of conservation and protected area management. Bhutan. Nature conservation was initiated as BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 3

2.1. Tiger Conservation Program Conservation Act of Bhutan (1995) accords Although a specific program focusing the tiger "fully protected" status: a status primarily on tigers did not begin until 1996, extended to 22 other species of wild animals many of the conservation needs of the and seven wild plants found in Bhutan. species were addressed through the establishment and management of a network In 1996, the Department of Forests and WWF of protected areas and the enactment of the Bhutan Program initiated the Tiger updated Forest & Nature Conservation Act of Conservation Program aimed at achieving Bhutan in 1995, which replaced the Bhutan three objectives: Forest Act (1974). The national protected 1. to complete a tiger survey for the entire areas system accounts for 26 percent of the country in order to assess presence/non- country's area and encompasses the full presence, distribution, and density of range of all major ecosystems found in the tigers across Bhutan country. An additional 9 percent of the 2. to develop the capacity to conduct country is included for conservation as technically competent tiger surveys by biological corridors, based on results from protected area and territorial Forest tiger surveys. The Forest and Nature Department staff, and BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 4

3. to promote public awareness of tiger 5. the establishment of the Tiger conservation and related issues. Conservation Fund to minimize human- wildlife conflict by compensating villagers Major achievements of the program, to date, for valuable livestock lost to predators are the following: like tigers, snow leopards, leopards and 1. the formulation and endorsement by Himalayan black bears. RGoB of a national strategy for tiger conservation based on a nationwide tiger 2.2. Tiger Population and sign survey, in 1998 Distribution 2. the training of more than thirty-five Forest Prior to the survey initiated by the Tiger Department staff in and outside PAs on Conservation Program, the tiger population tiger and prey survey methodology was assumed to be in the range of 80-240 3. the declaration of nearly 9 percent of the (Jackson & Kemf 1996; Dorji & Santiapillai country's total land area as biological 1989). After completion of five nation-wide corridors, thereby ensuring that critical surveys, an analysis of the sign data yielded forest areas outside the PAs are also a conservative crude estimate of 67 to 81 protected in the long-run adult animals and a total of approximately 115 4. the expansion of two protected areas viz. to 150 animals, including juveniles (McDougal Thrumshingla National Park (from 768 to & Tshering 1998). 905.32 km2) and Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary (1182 to 1545 km2) to The tiger in Bhutan ranges from 100 masl in include important tiger and snow leopard the south to as high as 4,100 m in the north. habitats, and It is found in almost all parts of the country. Bhutan offers a wide range of habitat for tiger BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 5

and prey and data from previous surveys addition to this significant role, the tiger plays have resulted into two different densities of an important socio-cultural role in Asian myth, tigers based on habitat type and elevation; legend and folklore where it is respected and there are more tigers in the south (sub-tropical revered. Sadly, its parts are occasionally forests) with a density of 1 tiger per 50 km2, coveted for alleged strength, vigor and whereas in the central Himalayan region curative properties. (temperate forests) the density is 1 tiger per 185 km2 according to the last surveys Conservation of the tiger is of great relevance (McDougal & Tshering 1998). These densities to Bhutan's religious and cultural heritage as so obtained need further verification through the tiger is believed to be one of the four more rigorous monitoring as a next step. power animals of the state religion, Buddhism (the other three are the mythical garuda, snow 2.3 The National and Global lion and dragon). Most Bhutanese are Significance of Tiger Buddhist and respect all forms of life. The Conservation in Bhutan tiger is also revered because it is believed to There is global concern for the tiger's be the protector of Buddhism and the mount conservation and protection. Its numbers of Guru Rinpoche, who flew on the back of a have declined drastically in the last century, tigress when he brought Buddhism to Bhutan reducing them to small fragmented in the eighth century. Taktshang, or "Tiger's populations. The species is near extinction Den" is one of the holiest temples in Bhutan. mainly due to human interferences such as the destruction of habitat and poaching for Bhutan offers one of the best opportunities for skin and bones. The tiger stands at the top of the long-term survival of the tiger. Over a the food chain and, therefore, serves as an quarter of its surface area, about 10,714 km2, indicator species of environmental health. In was estimated to be potential tiger habitat

Taktshang-tiger's den temple BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 6

such a wide range in altitude, from 100 to over 4000 masl. Bhutan offers one of the last places on earth where large cats such as the tiger can undergo evolutionary processes under fairly undisturbed natural conditions. Tigers exist at the edge of snow leopard habitat in the north, with leopards in much of Bhutan, and also with clouded leopards in the lower areas. They survive on different prey species in different parts of a contiguous habitat across an altitudinal gradient, while sambar and wild pigs are the main prey.

Not only is Bhutan's tiger population distributed throughout most parts of the country, the habitats also connect with those in . Tigers in Bhutan move from Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary to the Manas Tiger Reserve and three Reserved Forests of Assam, and to Buxa Tiger Reserve and Dorji Droloed riding a tigress Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary of West Bengal. This continuous distribution forms the nucleus (McDougal & Tshering 1998). However, of one of the two largest tiger populations in logically, all forested areas in Bhutan, South Asia, the Manas-Namdapha Tiger connected with the main tiger habitat is Conservation Unit (TCU). The other potential tiger habitat. More surveys and field population, in the Sundarban TCU, is shared investigations need to be carried out to between India and Bangladesh. Clearly, confirm this. Additionally, nowhere else can Bhutan's contribution will be crucial to the the tiger move in contiguous forests over long-term survival of the tiger in the region. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 7

Bhutan is in a favorable and unique position Moreover, breeding tigers are found in the with respect to tiger conservation compared corridors between Jigme Dorji National Park to other tiger range countries, and can play a and National Park/ key role in this at regional and international Royal Manas National Park; between Jigme levels. Unlike other countries, Bhutan offers Singye Wangchuck National Park and an opportunity for preemptive conservation - a Thrumshingla National Park; and between chance to act before the damage is actually Thrumshingla National Park and Bomdeling done. This is attributed to the Wildlife Sanctuary, making these linkages following factors: more than mere corridors for dispersing tigers. The National Tiger Conservation Strategy, 3.1. Extensive Habitat adopted by the Royal Government of Bhutan The country has ca. 72.5 percent of its total in 1998, calls for protection of the corridors surface area under forest cover (LUPS 1997), linking the protected areas where tigers are providing potential habitat for tiger and prey located resulting in the establishment of species. This is also important for many biological corridors. The biological corridor species that are endangered in other parts of complex was gifted under the "Gift to the the eastern Himalayan region. Tiger habitat in Earth" campaign of WWF in 1999 during His Bhutan contains several different prey Majesty the King Jigme Singye Wangchuck's species in one contiguous habitat: in the silver jubilee celebration of his glorious reign. north, takin, sambar and wild pigs are the Aptly named the Bhutan Biological dominant prey while in the south it is mostly Conservation Complex (B2C2) this landscape sambar, chital, gaur, and buffalo. Protected spans across Bhutan, and is the focus of its areas cover more than a quarter of the conservation efforts. Moreover, the tiger country's total land area. The tiger is population spanning the six protected areas in confirmed present in six protected areas: Bhutan spreads south into India's state of Jigme Dorji National Park, Jigme Singye Assam, linking up directly with the 2,840 km2 Wangchuck National Park, Royal Manas Manas Tiger Reserve. It spreads westward National Park, Thrumshingla National Park, into West Bengal's Buxa Tiger Reserve (370 Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and Bomdeling km2) and Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary (220 Wildlife Sanctuary and is expected in the km2), both of which provide good forest cover. three others. 3.2 Legislation All these protected areas have been legally The tiger is listed as a "fully protected" recognized and have implemented species, as it is included in Schedule I of the conservation management activities. Forest and Nature Conservation Act of BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 8

Bhutan, 1995, and is equivalent to the status wide distribution of tigers, ranging from the of Appendix 1 'endangered' in the IUCN Red sub-tropical south through the middle hills up Data Book. The penalties for killing a tiger, or to the temperate and alpine north. However, being in possession of its parts/products, as inaccessibility and the dense nature of the per the Forest and Nature Conservation Act of forests also present a challenge for carrying 1995, include imprisonment of up to 5 years, out tiger and prey surveys. and fines from Nu 50,000-200,000 (USD 1,100-4,400) or both. While this is enforced 3.4 Pro-conservation strictly, the monetary fine seems low at Development Strategy and present - for this reason the government is Stable Political Conditions revising the schedule of fines for wildlife The development strategy and the national crimes against endangered and policy for development have emphasized threatened species. long-term sustenance of the environment rather than short-term economic growth. The 3.3 Inaccessible Habitat and Royal Government has had a stable political Wide Distribution of the Tiger system that always accorded high priority to Bhutan is a mountainous country and the tiger conservation initiatives. These conditions inhabits very rugged terrain. The have greatly aided conservation efforts in the inaccessibility of this terrain makes it very country. Bhutan is also probably the only difficult for poachers to hunt tigers as well as country where tiger conservation efforts entail to exploit the forest frequented by tiger and pre-emptive and proactive efforts to maintain prey. The extensive and contiguous nature of existing conditions. It does not have to deal tiger and prey habitat in Bhutan allows for a with expensive restoration or rehabilitation of habitat. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 9

4.1. Commercial Poaching and Wildlife Trade Many parts of the tiger have medicinal value and, in addition, some parts are also made into high priced souvenirs. These parts and products have a lucrative market in the region, as well as in the United States and Europe. In addition, Bhutan has a porous border with both India and China, making the transportation of wildlife parts and products across borders relatively easy. At present, there is no legislation to allow law Poorly aligned roads can fragment vital habitat enforcement agencies in Bhutan to check and apprehend foreign traders. The problem is plans to construct 633 km of roads (DOR compounded by the lack of manpower to 2003), the Ministry of Agriculture plans to effectively carry out anti-poaching patrolling. construct 183.8 km of roads (MOA 2003), and, the Forestry Development Corporation 4.2 Fragmentation of Habitat will construct 120 km of forest roads. By the Bhutan is a developing nation. Consequently, end of 2007, a 937 km stretch of forests, with many development activities have yet to be a width of 10 m, will be cleared for road completed. For instance, in the current Five construction, which will disturb wildlife habitat Year Plan, the Department of Roads has in various places. Bhutan Power Corporation will install 1033 km of transmission lines with a corridor width of 50 m, carrying power to India from the Chukha and Kurichu Hydroelectric Projects (BPC 2003). For the next five years, the Forestry Development Corporation has earmarked 2142.67 km2 of forests for the harvesting of timber; an annual allowable cut of 208,088 m3 has been projected (FRDD 2001). Annually, the Forestry Development Corporation harvests 57,000 m3 of timber and 50,000 trees are marked for rural consumption. Additionally, Poaching and illegal trade of Asian big Bhutan's natural resources have been under cats is a threat BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 10

Improper alignment can cause breaks in Huge mega-projects require large amounts of habitat connectivity timber for adequate housing infrastructure threat of forest fires, especially during the dry livestock, especially in areas where natural winter months. In the last twelve years (1992- prey is scarce or steep terrain makes hunting 2003) approximately 1,251 km2 of forests difficult. Such conflict has led to retaliatory have been destroyed in 803 forest fire activities, notably the poisoning of carcasses incidences (Social Forestry Division 2004). with the intention of eliminating the threat to All these factors cumulatively place a huge valuable property. There is an increasing pressure on tiger and prey habitat all across trend in livestock depredation incidents in the country. most parts of the country. This trend has led to increasing human-wildlife conflict that has While the northern and central temperate resulted in retaliatory killings of tigers and forests face potential fragmentation due to other predators. In 2000, angry villagers near development activities, it is mainly the Thrumshingla National Park killed a tiger by southern broadleaf forests that face a greater poisoning a tiger kill. threat from hydropower projects, industries and infrastructure development. Although Tiger prey species such as wild pig and much of the tiger habitat within Bhutan is sambar cause considerable damage to more or less contiguous, it is important to agricultural crops. As much as 41.9 percent of maintain connectivity of swathes of the level I all farm households on an average had TCU (number 10) with tiger reserves (Buxa reported crop damage by wild animals (MoA and Manas) and other forests in India. This 2002). Villagers often set up snares and traps would allow for exchange of genes between a larger metapopulation of tigers and maintain genetic vigor in the long run.

4.3. Reconciling Tiger Conservation and Human Needs Villagers in much of Bhutan still follow the age-old tradition of livestock rearing. They move livestock to higher elevations during summer and back to lower grounds in winter. This practice has exacerbated human-wildlife conflict, resulting in depredation because livestock are left to graze freely in the forests. Indiscriminate snaring kills many It is inevitable that a tiger will attack untargeted animals BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 11

Livestock killed by tiger to catch these animals. The most widely used compelled by economic forces to let survival steel wire snares are indiscriminate and and their immediate livelihoods take frequently kill predators as well. It is important precedence over any long-term effect. It was to take this aspect of human wildlife conflict through a livestock protection programme in into consideration as well. the 1980s that many wild dog populations were exterminated from some regions of the To this end, in 1995, the Department of country. A profusion of wild pigs followed the Forests notified herders and farmers that crash in wild dog populations, and soon such practices were considered illegal and farmers all across the country were lamenting that they would face legal action if about crop loss due to wild pigs. There is a found guilty. gradual trend of urbanization and migration of youth from rural to urban areas. Increasingly, 4.4. Lack of Public Awareness of the urban youth are removed from their the Tiger Conservation Issue natural surroundings and lose awareness Approximately 79 percent of the Bhutanese about the interconnected of the ecosystems population are agrarian and live in close that was so obvious in their rural settings. proximity to tiger habitat. However, the people are, for the most part, not aware of long-term 4.5. Inadequate Database and consequences of environmental destruction. Data Management Often, many rural people and government Although the tiger program has been up and officials do not understand clearly the running since 1996, the program still lacks a dynamics of predator-prey relationships and, good information database. There is a definite therefore, are unable to relate to the need to set up a centralized database at NCD consequences of removing predators such as to store survey data from various field the tiger or wild dog. At other times they are surveys. Information from previous surveys BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 12

has not been properly stored and cannot be 4.6. Lack of Trained Manpower easily retrieved. Lack of a systematic to Implement Conservation procedure for data collection, compilation, Initiatives analysis and development of management There is an acute shortage of manpower at all prescriptions remain as a stumbling block for levels. The Nature Conservation Division of better-informed tiger conservation efforts. the Department of Forests has a staff of only There are plans for numerous field studies 223 to manage and protect the protected including grid-based index, line transect, and areas network of the country. Similarly, the camera-trapping surveys of tiger and prey Tiger Conservation Program and the Tiger species. In order for all of these efforts to be Conservation Fund is coordinated by a single useful, a sound database has to be set person but the implementation of program up in NCD. activities are carried out with manpower from territorial forest divisions and parks.

Anti-poaching team briefing before heading out on a patrol BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 13

Bhutan is fortunate to have an extensive land groups conducted situational analyses, area under forest cover, with approximately 35 identified threats and recommended actions percent set aside in protected areas linked by to mitigate these threats. These three themes biological corridors. A landscape approach to were then integrated to formulate a Tiger conservation is essential for the long-term Action Plan for the next decade. survival of floral and faunal diversity. However, one of the impeding factors to the This TAP is arranged into three major themes: effective management and conservation of species conservation, habitat conservation, rich biodiversity is the lack of detailed and human-wildlife conflict management. In information on this diverse biodiversity, be it order to achieve the objectives within these the tiger, prey species or local socio- themes, a fourth section focuses on creating economic activities. It is recognized that an enabling environment, which includes an such information is crucial for the successful education and awareness program, regional implementation of any conservation and cooperation and human resource management interventions. development.

Bhutan's Tiger Action Plan (TAP) 2006 - 2015 5.1. Goal will address the key threats identified above. To maintain a viable interconnected population The planning of the Tiger Action Plan was of breeding tigers in Bhutan, a population part of an international conference held in existing predominately on wild prey with Bhutan in September 2004 to update the minimal conflict between humans and tigers existing Tiger Conservation Strategy. The strategy used in designing the Tiger Action 5.2. Objectives Plan had three focal themes: species Species Conservation conservation - covering the tiger, its prey l In the first five years, develop field-based species and their status; habitat conservation information on tiger and ungulate prey - including forests, protected areas and population status (ecology, demography, biological corridors; and, human-wildlife genetics), with special focus on three key conflict management - including conflicts areas (Royal Manas NP representing the arising between humans and wildlife. subtropical belt, JSWNP representing the middle hills, and JDNP representing the Participants were divided into three groups northern temperate belt). This is then to and discussions were held on topics of be replicated in other areas representative species conservation, habitat conservation of the whole country by 2015 and human-wildlife conflict management. The BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 14

l Suppress killing of tiger and prey species, A. Species Conservation and halt the illegal trade of tiger parts and Objective A1: In the first five years, develop a products, and other endangered wildlife database on tiger and ungulate prey population status (ecology, demography and Habitat Conservation genetics) and trends, with special focus on l Assess a country-wide tiger and prey three key areas (Royal Manas NP habitat status and change over time using representing the subtropical belt, JSWNP GIS and remote-sensing, identify critical representing the middle hills, and JDNP areas for management intervention in representing the northern temperate belt) by order to maintain habitat contiguity 2010. This is then to be replicated in other l Identify existing conflicting land-use areas representative of the whole country policies affecting tiger and prey habitat by 2015. and resolve them through multi-sectoral dialogue, and develop a legal mechanism The last nationwide tiger survey was to ensure future policies adequately conducted in 1998. At that time, the total accommodate tiger conservation population was estimated to be between 67 to concerns 81 breeding tigers. There is a need to further update this result using more intensive Human-Wildlife Conflict Management surveys, and to determine whether the l Determine main causes of livestock population is increasing, decreasing or stable. depredation by tigers in three areas including Punakha Dzongkhag (where In order to narrow down the study focus, three livestock depredation was highest in sites representing the sub-tropical belt 2004) in order to understand the conflict (RMNP), middle hills (JSWNP) and the so that appropriate remedies can be northern temperate belt (JDNP) will be adopted. This study would then be selected to represent different parts and replicated to other sites strata of a larger contiguous landscape. The l Reduce retaliatory killing through proposed surveys will be conducted by preventive and mitigation measures as pooling key field staff from respective PAs well as incentives and NCD, after training them on survey methodology. Most of the staff selected have Developing Enabling Factors already undergone previous training on tiger Education and Awareness Program and prey surveys. l Increase general awareness on the tiger's ecological and cultural significance to In each of the sites, tiger and prey distribution various stakeholders and audiences and relative abundance will be surveyed using interviews, index-surveys, line transects, and Regional Cooperation capture-recapture sampling with double-sided l Reduce trans-boundary poaching through camera-traps. bilateral dialogue, legislation and enforcement, as well as explore trans- Additionally, the program will embark on boundary cooperation for habitat linkages research projects concerned with tiger ecology, prey species and habitat conditions Human Resource Development in the country. The identified teams will l Increase the number of adequately undergo a short training program, and will trained staff of NCD/DOF then be trained on-the-job. One component of the field research will focus on analysis of BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 15

tiger diet composition through scat analysis. l Conduct index surveys, line transect A reference slide collection of ungulate hair surveys, and capture-recapture sampling and tissues will be developed for use by NCD. surveys using camera traps to evaluate This will further provide information on the tiger and prey distribution and relative genetic diversity and viability of the tiger abundance for each one of the three PAs population in Bhutan through non-invasive selected collection and analysis of tiger DNA materials l Study the behavior and ecology of the (to be carried out at the PCR lab of the tiger and its prey species using radio Ministry of Agriculture). telemetry, camera trapping and other modern techniques Information associated with tiger range, l Survey and assess tiger and prey habitat territory and movement patterns and behavior conditions would be useful and provide better tools for l Obtain, tranquilize and take genetic conservation. Due to difficult terrain in much samples from collections of blood and of the country, conventional VHF radio collars tissue from wild tigers captured for radio will be useful only in limited places like parts telemetry or those that die from other of RMNP where animals can be tracked from causes elephant-back, on foot and from vehicles. It l Conduct DNA testing and other genetic might be possible to track animals on the studies of tigers eastern and northern sides of JSWNP from l Perform exploratory population viability along the highway. However, resource modeling permitting, GPS satellite collars should be l Establish a permanent monitoring used for radio telemetry studies as far as system of the habitats of the main tiger possible in most parts of Bhutan. prey species l Determine food habits of tigers through Output tiger scat analysis, and develop a l Data on tiger and prey distribution and reference collection of ungulate hair their relative abundance in three PAs samples and an identification manual collected, which would then be extrapolated to the larger adjoining areas, Objective A2: Suppress killing of tiger and and finally to the whole country prey species, and halt the illegal trade of l Information on tiger ecology and ranging tiger parts and products, and other behavior in Bhutan collected endangered wildlife. l A detailed report on the genetic profile and long-term viability of the tiger In the period between 1999 and 2003, three population in Bhutan produced tigers were reported to have been poached l Spatial distribution and habitat partition based on apprehension reports compiled by by wild herbivores in the three study the Forest Department. In the same period a areas determined total of 17 sambar and 19 musk deer l Reference slide collection of ungulate hair poaching cases were reported (FPUD 2004). and tissue samples, and an identification While these are relatively low figures, it is manual prepared likely that several cases have gone unreported. Further, the low poaching record Activities is also a direct result of stringent anti- l Establish randomly selected grid-based poaching efforts by the Forest Department study sites of adequate size in the field both inside the PAs and outside. for routine monitoring of tiger and prey populations BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 16

In anticipation of and to prevent poaching, l Conduct regular anti-poaching patrols and there is need to put in place an effective anti- surprise checks by PA and Forest poaching patrol system that is well equipped, Department staff trained, and well-informed. An informer l Survey poached animals and plants, and network comprising local community identify and document trade routes, members should enhance detection of volumes and market forces poachers and poaching activities. The existing penalties for wildlife crime, especially B. Habitat Conservation pertaining to killing of tiger and illegally Objective B1: Identify critical areas of tiger trading in tiger parts is very low, and does not and prey habitat for management intervention, act as a deterrent: killing a tiger has a using GIS and remote sensing, in order to monetary fine ranging from Nu 50,000 (USD maintain habitat integrity and contiguity 1,100) to 2,00,000 (USD 4,400) and or imprisonment up to five years. This has to be Bhutan is fast developing with a myriad of reviewed and updated to make the penalties developmental activities occurring stronger so that they act as deterrents to simultaneously across the country. As a wildlife crimes. result, there is a great risk that critical tiger and prey habitat will be converted for Output infrastructure development. This is especially l Two-hundred government officials true for the broadleaf forests that lie in the representing various law enforcement, industrial belt of the south, which are also airport and border regulatory authorities, critical corridors connecting tiger habitat in and tourism agencies trained in India. In order to understand the dynamics of identification of wildlife and wildlife parts, habitat change over time, a detailed analysis CITES regulations and national and of forest cover change will be carried out international legislation regarding illegal using time-series satellite images. Such wildlife trade analyses will be coupled with ground-truthing l Killing of tiger and prey species and other where necessary. This will then provide a tool wildlife crime reduced or stopped with which to identify critical breaks in habitat l The Schedule of Fines in the Forest and contiguity and highlight threatened areas. Nature Conservation Act reviewed and Having done this, appropriate habitat updated protection and management recommendations can be made. Activities l Organize training on identification of Output wildlife parts and products for Forest l Forest cover change maps (from 1960's - Department, Customs, Police, Tourism, or earliest available - till present) Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory developed Authority (BAFRA), Immigration and other l Maps highlighting critical and potential relevant law enforcement officials breaks in connectivity developed l Establish network of informants using l Report on overall habitat status and local communities to assist in detection management prescriptions produced of poachers and poaching activities l Map of critical tiger and prey habitat l Strengthen anti-poaching capacity by developed providing effective communication equipment and field gear BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 17

Activities The Royal Audit Authority (RAA) now has the l Interpret satellite image and classify capability to perform environmental audits. It vegetation types based on existing LUSS is important for the Department of Forests to vegetation types for one standard of nominate a forestry official to be on the RAA vegetation classification committee in order to put forth concerns of l Carry out forest cover change detection the department. A mechanism will also be put over time into effect that will assure the Department of l Identify critical and potential breaks, Forests' review of all developmental activities validate causes for these on the ground, before the NEC issues "environmental clearance". and restore the breaks or remove This is primarily to avoid any destruction to potential threats critical wildlife habitat. The Department of l Develop criteria for defining critical tiger Forests will also need to form a review team and prey habitat developed based on that will review proposals before the issuance information on tiger and prey distribution, of "environmental clearance". usage of habitat, level of threat and others Output l Delineate critical tiger and prey habitat, l A gap analysis report of all policies and especially in the southern broadleaf belt legislation related to land-use, highlighting that should be closely observed for loopholes, bottlenecks and conflicting upcoming or planned industrial or issues with regards to threats to critical infrastructure development tiger and prey habitat compiled l A mechanism and protocol to consult or Objective B2: Identify existing conflicting inform the review committee on any land-use policies affecting tiger and prey developmental activities in critical tiger habitat and resolve them through multi-sectoral and prey habitat put in place dialogue, and develop a legal mechanism to ensure future policies adequately Activities accommodate tiger conservation concerns l Contract a legal expert to work with NCD to carry out a gap analysis of all relevant A systematic review of all the legislation existing legislation pertaining to land-use regarding land-use has to be carried out in that could have a negative impact on order to highlight conflicting issues. These critical tiger and prey habitat will then need to be discussed and resolved. l Conduct multi-sectoral consultation For this purpose, a multi-sectoral consultation workshops on conflicting land-use in order workshop will be organized. The workshop will to resolve existing conflicts and prevent bring together representatives from sectors future conflicts such as agriculture, forests, livestock, survey l Appoint a Forest Department and land record, road, energy and trade and representative to the environmental industry. Key stakeholders such as the auditing committee Bhutan Power Corporation, the Royal Audit l Identify land-use conflict zones Authority, the National Environmental (development and infrastructure projects) Commission Secretariat (NECS) and private based on surveys and habitat analyses organizations will also participate in the consultations. The workshop is expected to make recommendations to the government on measures for land-use conflict resolution and the means to resolve them. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 18

C. Human-Wildlife Conflict Management Activities Objective C1: Determine main causes of l Set up a geo-referenced database on livestock depredation by tigers in three areas livestock depredation and map hotspots including Punakha Dzongkhag (where l Conduct studies in areas that have the livestock depredation was highest in 2004) in highest number of tiger depredation cases order to understand the conflict so that to compare with other tiger areas with appropriate remedies can be adopted. This little or no depredation study would then be replicated to other sites. l Explore appropriate remedial measures like providing improved breed of cattle (to In 2004, 648 cases of livestock depredation discourage open grazing in the forest), by tiger and other carnivores across the reinforced corrals to protect cattle and country were reported. Out of these 122 other livestock, and improved animal cases were related to depredation by tiger husbandry practices (Sangay 2004). Based on survey reports, most of the depredation occurred during the Objective C2: Reduce retaliatory killing of months of July-September coinciding with the tiger and prey species through prevention and rainy monsoon season. Why is this mitigation measures as well as incentives. happening? If there is adequate prey, why are livestock preyed upon? Could we attribute At present, the program does not have any livestock depredation to low prey density, or credible livestock data regarding: 1) livestock poor livestock management, or are there other holding, 2) livestock type/breed, 3) rearing reasons? To understand and resolve human- systems (free ranging, migratory and stall- wildlife conflict these questions must be fed), 4) migratory routes and stations, and 5) answered. When the causes for depredation population trends (whether the population is are identified, appropriate remedial measures stable, increasing or decreasing by breed). must be taken. The program would also like Livestock information will be sought from the to build a geo-referenced database on Department of Livestock and will be cross- livestock depredation that will be crucial in the checked with the RNR census database to identification of depredation hotspots in the build a database for future assessment on country. Once these hotspots are identified livestock-related issues. The program will and mapped, detailed investigations must be also explore experimental measures for carried out to understand the main causes of reducing livestock depredation, i.e. agriculture livestock depredation. intensification programs designed to change the livelihood of people who depend solely on Output livestock, promotion of superior breeds, stall l Livestock depredation hotspot map feeding, infrastructure enhancement and produced improved husbandry practices. In order to l Report on livestock depredation by tiger foster friendly relations with livestock owners that highlights its relation to habitat and to prevent retaliatory killings, the program quality, prey abundance, human has started the ambitious Tiger Conservation influences and other factors Fund, a compensation scheme to l Successful interventions tried and tested compensate owners for livestock killed by to prevent livestock depredation and tigers, snow leopards, common leopards or mitigate human-wildlife conflict Himalayan black bears. This scheme was begun three years ago and there is a need to study its effectiveness while exploring alternative measures or incentives to cash compensation. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 19

Output Output: l Report on the analysis of the existing l Education materials (print, electronic, compensation scheme produced audio/visual) on ecological and cultural l A database on livestock information and significance of tigers prepared and depredation cases in the country distributed developed l These materials included by Education l Various options for preventive and conflict Department in school curricula at different mitigation measures explored and put in levels place l Education and awareness materials l Peoples' attitude towards, and prepared and distributed to the urban and acceptance of human-wildlife conflict rural public, at border entry points, check- studied posts and other relevant places

Activities Activities: l Evaluate current compensation schemes l Printing of education materials on and explore opportunities for ecological and cultural significance of improvement tigers in Bhutan l Collation of livestock information from l Production of a 30-minute audio-visual as various districts and other institutions well as radio program on the status of l Explore other opportunities and options to tigers in Bhutan, threats to its survival, compensation and long-term conservation needs l Conduct survey on local people's l Consultation meeting with the Education perception on wildlife damages Department, particularly the Curriculum Division, to discuss the inclusion of tiger- Creating an Enabling specific chapters in science and Environment environmental studies in the lower school curricula D. Education and Awareness Program l Discussion with Sherubtse College, Objective D1: Increase general awareness on Natural Resources Training Institute, the tiger's ecological and cultural significance Ugyen Wangchuck Institute of Forestry to various stakeholders and audiences and Environmental Studies and Bhutan Forestry Institute to include tiger-specific The participation and ownership of local chapters in their lesson plans residents are the most important factors for l Identify network of institutions, nature the success of any conservation effort. Local clubs, schools and community groups in communities should be made aware of the the urban and rural public, at border entry importance and significance of the points, check-posts and other relevant conservation of endangered species like the places to distribute printed educational tiger. The benefits of tiger conservation material should be understood, appreciated and received by those who have to live with the tiger, often losing their primary source of livelihood to depradation. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 20

E. Regional Cooperation Output Objective 5: Reduce trans-boundary l Protocol and Memorandum of poaching through bilateral dialogue, Understanding drawn up and signed legislation and enforcement, and explore between the Royal Government of Bhutan trans-boundary cooperation to maintain and and Government of India improve habitat linkages. l Joint anti-poaching patrolling of border protected areas increased Tiger habitat in Bhutan spreads across at l Joint exchanges of field visits to share least six protected areas (additional surveys experiences and discuss issues of are likely to yield positive data from more common concern increased areas). It is further connected to India at Manas Tiger Reserve in Assam, and Buxa Activities Tiger Reserve and Jaldapara Wildlife l Identify and establish a baseline of Sanctuary in West Bengal. This forms a hotspots in poaching and wildlife trade contiguous tiger habitat all the way to activities Namdapha in Arunachal Pradesh on the l Study the current legislation gaps and Myanmar border, resulting in one of the protocol developed for the prosecution of largest contiguous TCU's in the region. international poachers that will be the Bhutan is a landlocked nation that shares main content of the MOU with the Indian open borders with India in the east, west and authorities south, and China in the north. These l Initiate dialogue on trans-boundary extensive borders are very porous and are conservation issues between India and often actively used for poaching and illegal Bhutan wildlife trade activities. It is of utmost l Conduct joint inspection and patrols of importance to collate information on trans- border PAs with Indian authorities boundary issues of wildlife trade and poaching l Arrange exchange visits between in order to understand their nature and extent. Bhutanese and Indian forest officials

There is a need to organize frequent trans- F. Human Resources Development boundary meetings to discuss cross-border Objective 6: Increase the number of poaching and wildlife trade. A Memorandum adequately trained staff of NCD/DOF and of Understanding (MOU) that will include partners to implement the Tiger Action Plan. detailed legal provisions for prosecuting and extraditing foreign offenders has to be signed At present, the country is acutely short of between the Royal Government of Bhutan and human resource at all levels. This is the Government of India. In addition, joint especially true in the protected areas. To anti-poaching patrols need to be stepped up cope with this, the Department of Forests has to monitor border protected areas such as employed villagers as forest guards to help Royal Manas National Park, Phibsoo and reinforce the protection of forests. These Khaling Wildlife Sanctuaries. Exchange visits village forest guards need basic training in between Bhutanese and Indian Forest surveying and monitoring wildlife. There is officials will allow them to share experiences also a need for additional training to locally- on PA management, and discuss issues of trained foresters in order to update their skills common concern especially regarding in survey methodologies adapted to local poaching, habitat destruction and other conditions. These trainings will be in the form wildlife crimes. of specialized courses, study tours and attendance at various regional and BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 21

international conferences and workshops on l Training in scat analysis tiger and wildlife conservation. In order to l Training on capture and recapture implement the Tiger Action Plan, the following sampling capacity building activities are foreseen: l Training on image classification using GIS and remote sensing Training on Survey Methodologies and l Training on survey methodologies and Monitoring Techniques monitoring techniques Presently, untrained personnel execute the l In-country training on survey methods program activities in the field and as a result, l In-country workshop information generated is not compatible or l Regional and international meetings useful. The program will trained some l Hosting General Assembly and Executive (territorial divisions and parks) field staffs on Committee Meeting of the Global Tiger survey methodologies and monitoring Forum in the year of the Tiger (2010) techniques for two weeks. The training will l Training course in management of wild enhance their capacity to carry out program tigers activities independently. l Training in wildlife management and conservation biology Training on Advanced and Intensive Research and Sampling Methods Output The Tiger Conservation Program will initiate l 50 staff from territorial forest divisions and implement field research projects as and six protected areas trained in the required. To enhance the capability of locally region on these specialized courses viz. trained staff members, they will join a twelve- research and sampling methods, scat week intensive course on research and analysis, capture and recapture sampling, survey methodologies in a regional institution survey methodologies and monitoring such as the Wildlife Institute of India.. The techniques and image classification and course will be tailor-made to meet our remote sensing requirements and is expected to include: 1) l 400 staff involved with the program will development of research proposals, 2) attend or participate in the in-country various survey techniques such as camera training and workshop, and attend trapping, pellet group sampling, line transects, courses on wildlife management and etc. 3) data collection, 4) identification of conservation biology animal signs, 5) tracking animals using radio l 70 senior staff attended regional and telemetry, 6) use of GPS, 7) statistical international meetings, workshops and analysis (spatial analysis using GIS), 8) conferences on matters related to tiger conservation biology (including wildlife health and wildlife conservation and medicine) and, 9) tranquilizing animals. Upon completion of the training, they will form Activities the core team for program implementation. l Co-ordinate and organize various training needs of the program staff (as per l Training on advanced and intensive annexure I) research and sampling methods l Long-term studies BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 22 Total in USD 11764.71 35294.12 88235.29 64705.88 35294.12 0.00 2352.94 5882.35 5882.35 Year 10 2014-15 Year 9 2352.94 5882.35 5882.35 11764.71 20013-14 Year 8 2352.94 5882.35 5882.35 2012-13 11764.71 Year 7 2352.94 5882.35 2011-12 11764.71 11764.71 elt). This is then to be replicated in other areas prey with minimal conflict between humans and tigers' Year 6 2352.94 5882.35 2010-11 11764.71 11764.71 mography, genetics), with special focus on three key areas (Royal mography, Amount in USD 4705.88 2352.94 Year 5 2009-10 11764.71 11764.71 4705.88 2352.94 Year 4 2008-9 11764.71 4705.88 2352.94 Year 3 2007-08 11764.71 4705.88 2352.94 Year 2 2006-07 11764.71 4705.88 2352.94 Year 1 2005-06 11764.71 Establish randomly selected grid- based study sites of adequate size in the field, for routine monitoring of tiger and prey populations Conduct index surveys, line transect surveys, and capture- recapture sampling surveys using camera traps to evaluate tiger and prey distribution and relative abundance for each one of the three selected PAs Study the behaviour and ecology of the tiger and its prey species using camera trapping and radio telemetry, other modern techniques Survey and assess tiger prey habitat conditions Obtain, tranquilize and take genetic samples from collections of blood and tissue from wild tigers captured for radio-telemetry or that died from other causes. Output Activities Species Conservation Objective: • In the first five years, develop field-based information on tiger and ungulate prey population status (ecology, de Objective: • In the first five years, develop field-based information on tiger and ungulate prey population status (ecology, Manas NP representing the subtropical belt, JSWNP middle hills, and JDNP northern temperate b representative of the whole country by 2015. Data on tiger and prey distribution and their relative abundance in three PAs collected, which would then be extrapolated to the larger adjoining areas, and finally to the whole country Information on tiger ecology and ranging behavior in Bhutan collected A detailed report on the genetic profile and long term viability of the tiger population in Bhutan produced Spatial distribution and habitat partition by wild herbivores in the three study areas determined Reference slide collection of ungulate hair and tissue samples, and an identification manual prepared Goal: 'to maintain a viable interconnected population of breeding tigers in Bhutan, existing predominately on wild BUDGET AND WORKPLAN BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 23 Total 9411.76 in USD 11764.71 61176.47 58823.53 23529.41 16470.59 23529.41 5882.35 2352.94 4705.88 Year 10 2014-15 11764.71 Year 9 5882.35 2352.94 4705.88 11764.71 20013-14 Year 8 5882.35 2352.94 4705.88 2012-13 11764.71 5882.35 2352.94 4705.88 Year 7 2011-12 11764.71 Year 6 4705.88 2352.94 4705.88 11764.71 2010-11 ngered wildlife. Amount in USD 2352.94 2352.94 2352.94 4705.88 Year 5 2009-10 2352.94 2352.94 2352.94 4705.88 Year 4 2008-9 9411.76 2352.94 4705.88 2352.94 Year 3 2007-08 9411.76 2352.94 4705.88 2352.94 Year 2 2006-07 9411.76 2352.94 2352.94 4705.88 2352.94 Year 1 2005-06 Conduct DNA testing and other genetic studies of tigers. Perform exploratory population viability modeling Establish a permanent monitoring system of the habitats main tiger prey species Determine food habits of tigers through tiger scat analysis, and develop a reference collection of ungulate hair samples and an identification manual Organize training on identification of wildlife parts and products for Forest Department, Customs, Police, Bhutan Agriculture and Tourism, Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA), Immigration and other relevant law enforcement officials Establish network of informants using local communities to assist in detection of poachers and poaching activities Strengthen anti-poaching capacity by providing effective communication equipment and field gear Output Activities Objective: • Suppress killing of tiger and prey species, halt the illegal trade parts products, other enda 200 government officials representing various law enforcement, airport and border regulatory authorities, and tourism agencies trained in identification of wildlife and wildlife parts, on CITES regulations, and on national and international legislation regarding illegal wildlife trade Killing of tiger and prey species, and other wildlife crime reduced or stopped The Schedule of fines in the Forest and Nature Conservation Act reviewed and updated BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 24 Total 2352.94 7058.82 4705.88 5882.35 7058.82 in USD 11764.71 11764.71 Year 10 2014-15 Year 9 20013-14 Year 8 2012-13 1176.47 1176.47 1176.47 1176.47 Year 7 2011-12 r to maintain habitat integrity and contiguity 1176.47 1176.47 Year 6 2010-11 ngered wildlife. Amount in USD 1176.47 7058.82 Year 5 2009-10 1176.47 5882.35 Year 4 2008-9 1176.47 4705.88 Year 3 2007-08 1176.47 7058.82 Year 2 2006-07 1176.47 1176.47 Year 1 11764.71 2005-06 Conduct regular anti-poaching patrol and and surprise checking by PA Forest Department staff Conduct survey on poached animals and plants, as well identify document trade routes, volumes and market forces. Interpret satellite image and classify vegetation types based on existing LUSS vegetation types to maintain one standard of vegetation classification Carry out forest cover change detection over time Develop criteria for defining critical tiger and prey habitat developed, based on information tiger and prey distribution, usage of habitat, level of threat and others Identify critical and potential breaks, validate causes for these on the ground, and restore the breaks or remove potential threats Delineate critical tiger and prey habitat, especially in the southern broadleaf belt that should be "closely observed" for upcoming or planned industrial infrastructure development Output Activities Objective: • Suppress killing of tiger and prey species, halt the illegal trade parts products, other enda Habitat Conservation Objective: Identify critical areas of tiger and prey habitat for management intervention, using GIS remote sensing, in orde Forest cover change maps (from 1960’s – or earliest available – till present) developed Maps highlighting critical and potential breaks in connectivity developed Report on overall habitat status and management prescriptions produced Map of critical tiger and prey habitat developed BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 25 Total 1176.47 5882.35 3529.41 2352.94 in USD Year 10 2014-15 Year 9 20013-14 Year 8 2012-13 Year 7 2011-12 Year 6 oral dialogue, and develop a legal mechanism to ensure future 2010-11 Amount in USD Year 5 2009-10 1176.47 5882.35 3529.41 2352.94 Year 4 2008-9 Year 3 2007-08 Year 2 2006-07 Year 1 2005-06 Contract a legal expert to work with NCD to carry out a gap analysis of all relevant existing legislation pertaining to land use that could have a negative impact on critical tiger and prey habitat. Conduct multi-sectoral consultation workshops on conflicting land use iin order to resolve existing conflicts and prevent future conflicts Appoint a Forest Department representative to the environmental auditing committee Identify land-use conflict zones (development and infrastructure projects) based on surveys and habitat analyses. Output Activities Objective: Identify existing conflicting land use policies affecting tiger and prey habitat resolve them through multi-sect policies adequately accommodate tiger conservation A gap analysis report of all policies and legislation related to land use, highlighting loopholes, bottlenecks and conflicting issues with regards to threats to critical tiger and prey habitat compiled A mechanism and protocol to consult or inform the review committee on any developmental activities up in critical tiger and prey habitat put in place. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 26 Total 2352.94 2352.94 2352.94 2352.94 in USD 14117.65 20000.00 10588.24 1764.71 4705.88 5882.35 Year 10 2014-15 Year 9 4705.88 20013-14 Year 8 2012-13 1176.47 1176.47 1176.47 1176.47 1764.71 1764.71 1764.71 Year 7 2011-12 epredation was highest in 2004) order to understand the s Year 6 2010-11 Amount in USD 1764.71 1764.71 Year 5 2009-10 1764.71 4705.88 2352.94 2352.94 Year 4 2008-9 1764.71 4705.88 2352.94 Year 3 2007-08 5882.35 2352.94 Year 2 2006-07 Year 1 2005-06 Set up a geo-referenced database on livestock depredation and map hotspots Conduct studies in areas which have highest number of depredation cases by tiger to compare with other areas without any depredation, or where depredation is low. Explore appropriate remedial measures such as providing improved breed of cattle (to discourage open grazing in the forest), reinforced corrals to better protect cattle and other livestock, improved animal husbandry practices Evaluate current compensation schemes and explore opportunities for improvement. Collation of livestock information from various districts and other institutions Explore other opportunities and options to compensation Conduct survey on local people’s perception on wildlife damages Output Activities Human/Wildlife Conflict Management Objective: • Determine main causes of livestock depredation by tigers in 3 areas including Punakha Dzongkhag (where d conflict so that appropriate remedies can be adopted. This study would then replicated to other sites Objective: Reduce retaliatory killing of tiger and prey species through prevention mitigation measures as well incentive Livestock depredation hotspot map produced Report on livestock depredation by tiger that highlights its relatedness to prey habitat quality, abundance, human influences and other factors prepared. A set of successful interventions to prevent livestock depredation, and mitigate human wildlife conflict tried and tested Report on the analysis of existing compensation scheme produced A database on livestock information and depredation cases in the country developed options for preventive and Various conflict mitigation measures explored and put in place Peoples’ attitude towards, and acceptance of human wildlife conflict studied BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 27 Total 7058.82 2352.94 4705.88 7058.82 in USD 47058.82 1176.47 4705.88 2352.94 Year 10 2014-15 Year 9 4705.88 3529.41 20013-14 Year 8 4705.88 3529.41 2012-13 Year 7 2011-12 Year 6 4705.88 4705.88 2010-11 Amount in USD 4705.88 3529.41 Year 5 2009-10 4705.88 3529.41 Year 4 2008-9 1176.47 4705.88 2352.94 Year 3 2007-08 Year 2 2006-07 4705.88 4705.88 Year 1 2005-06 Printing of education materials on ecological and cultural significance of tigers in Bhutan Production of 30 minutes video program as well radio on the status of tigers in Bhutan, threats to its survival, and long-term conservation needs Consultation meeting with Education Department, particularly Curriculum Division, to discuss on the inclusion of tiger-specific chapters in the science and environmental studies subjects in lower school curricula Discussion with Sherubtse College, Natural Resources Training Institute, Ugyen Wangchuck Institute of Forestry and Environmental Studies and Bhutan Forestry Institute to include tiger-specific chapters in their lesson plans Identify network of institutions, nature clubs, schools, and community groups in the urban and rural public, border entry points, check-posts and other relevant places for distribution of the printed education materials Output Activities Education and Awareness Program Objective: Increase general awareness on the tiger's ecological and cultural significance to various stakeholders audiences Education materials (print, electronic, audio/visual) on ecological and cultural significance of tigers prepared and distributed These materials included by Education Department in school curricula at different levels Education and awareness materials prepared and distributed to the urban and rural public, border entry points, check-posts and other relevant places Baseline on people's perception of tiger developed BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 28 Total 9411.76 1176.47 4705.88 in USD 176470.59 817647.06 2352.94 Year 10 2014-15 17647.06 80588.24 Year 9 17647.06 84117.65 20013-14 Year 8 2352.94 2012-13 17647.06 81764.71 1176.47 1176.47 1176.47 Year 7 2011-12 17647.06 81764.71 ndary cooperation for maintaining and improving habitat Year 6 2352.94 2010-11 17647.06 84117.65 Amount in USD 2352.94 Year 5 2009-10 17647.06 80588.24 Year 4 2008-9 17647.06 87647.06 Year 3 2007-08 17647.06 78235.29 1176.47 Year 2 2006-07 17647.06 77647.06 Year 1 2352.94 2352.94 2005-06 17647.06 81176.47 Identify and establish a baseline of hotspots in poaching and wildlife trade activities. Carry out a study on the current legislation gaps and protocol developed for the prosecution of international poachers which will be the main content of MOU Initiate dialogue on trans-boundary conservation issues between India and Bhutan Specific training, refresher course, study tours and workshop conference Output Activities Regional Cooperation Human Resource Development Objective: Reduce trans-boundary poaching through bilateral dialogue, legislation and enforcement, as well explore trans-bou Objective: Increase the number of adequately trained staff at NCD/DoF linkages. Protocol and Memorandum of Understanding drawn up and signed between the Royal Government of Bhutan and Government of India Illegal poaching and cross- border trade across the Indo- Bhutan borders reduced Total BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 29

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DoF 2003. Briefing on Department of Forest, Department of Forest, Royal Government of Bhutan. Thimphu, Bhutan

Dorji, P., & Santiapillai, C. 1989. Status, distribution and conservation of the tiger in Bhutan, Biological Conservation 48 (311-319).

Jackson, P. & Kemf, E. 1996. Wanted Alive! Tigers in the Wild: 1996 WWF Species Status Report, WWF, Gland, Switzerland.

LUPS 1997. Atlas of Bhutan - Land Cover & Area Statistics of 20 Dzongkhags, Land Use Planning Section, Plan and Policy Division, Ministry of Agriculture, Thimphu Bhutan.

McDougal, C. & Tshering, K. 1998. Tiger Conservation Strategy for the Kingdom of Bhutan, Nature Conservation Division, Forestry Services Division, Ministry of Agriculture & WWF Bhutan Program, Thimphu Bhutan.

MoA, RGoB 1998. Biodiversity Action Plan for Bhutan, Ministry of Agriculture, Royal Government of Bhutan, Thimphu Bhutan.

MoA 2002. Renewable Natural Resources Statistics 2000 Vol. 1, Ministry of Agriculture, Royal Government of Bhutan, Thimphu Bhutan.

RGOB 2002. Ninth Plan Main Document (2002-2007), Planning Commission, Royal Government of Bhutan, Thimphu Bhutan.

Sangay 2004. A paper presentation to the Tiger Conservation Fund Board Meeting on 21 January 2004, Thimphu Bhutan. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 30

ANNEXURE 1 Human Resource Development

Training on Advance and Intensive Research and Sampling Methods The Tiger Conservation Program will enhance the capability of the program staff that are locally trained with a twelve-week course on advanced and intensive research and sampling methods. The course is expected to include: 1) development of research proposals, 2) various survey techniques such as camera trapping, pellet group sampling, line transects, etc. 3) data collection, 4) identification of animal signs, 5) tracking animals using radio telemetry equipments, 6) use of GPS, 7) statistical analysis (spatial analysis using GIS), 8) conservation biology (wildlife health and medicine) and, 9) tranquilizing animals. The staffs will be sent to reputed institutions in the region.

Long-term Studies The program plans for long-term research where studies can be integrated with higher degrees. Dedicated and motivated staff from the Nature Conservation Division and Protected Areas could pursue independent studies for postgraduate degrees (Diploma, MSc and PhD).

Training in Scat Analysis The program will identify two staff to undergo a two-week training on scat analysis handling and management at the Wildlife Institute of India. They will carry out scat analysis to determine tiger diet composition.

Training on Capture and Recapture Sampling The program will request for three staff to attend a three-week on-the-job training at the Centre of Wildlife Studies, India, on capture and recapture sampling. They will pioneer any camera trapping exercises and to perform capture and recapture samplings in Bhutan.

Training on Image Classification Using GIS and Remote Sensing The program will be updating land-use maps and needs to carry out image classification. At present, the GIS unit of NCD does not have the capability to carry out image classification using GIS and RS. Therefore, two GIS personnel will be trained in image classification using GIS and RS at either ESRI or ITC.

Study Tours and Training on Surveying Methodologies and Monitoring Techniques The program will send staff closely involved with the program on a study tour to Nepal and India to expose them to tiger conservation challenges and efforts outside their immediate experience. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 31

In-country Training on Survey Methods A week-long in-country training and refresher course will be conducted for forestry and park staff on survey methodologies and monitoring techniques that are necessary to carry out wildlife surveys. It will focus on tigers and conservation efforts. It will be attended by 40 staff from various territorial forest divisions and parks and every alternate year.

In-country Workshop A one-day in-country workshop will be held to report on survey and research finding as well as on the compensation results. This workshop will be organized once every three years.

Regional and International meetings As Bhutan has recently ratified and joined CITES (2002), this allows for the CITES management authority and scientific authority personnel to attend CITES meetings. It is important for the Bhutanese government officials to keep abreast of what is happening in relation to tiger conservation in the region and internationally.

General Assembly and Executive Committee Meeting of the Global Tiger Forum The Global Tiger Forum Secretariat has requested Bhutan to host its General Assembly and Executive Committee meeting, which we would like to do during 2010, the Year of the Tiger, to showcase our commitment to tiger conservation. The meeting will be attended by all members of the Global Tiger Forum, as well as by organizations that have a stake in tiger conservation.

Training Course in Management of Wild Tigers The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has conducted a three-week course on the management of wild tigers. The program would like to request the Institute to organize a similar training course for Bhutanese staff in Bhutan to be attended by select staff that have proven their dedication to tiger conservation.

Training in Wildlife Management and Conservation Biology The Smithsonian Institution has conducted training on wildlife management and conservation biology in various countries. The program will request it to conduct a similar training in Bhutan. The core-research team and the contact persons of the program will attend. About 50 staff from the forestry divisions and parks are expected to attend the three-week session. BHUTAN TIGER ACTION PLAN 2006-2015 32 For further information:

Nature Conservation Division WWF Bhutan Program Department of Forests P.O. Box 210 Ministry of Agriculture Chubachu Tashichhodzong Thimphu, BHUTAN Thimphu, BHUTAN Phone : +975 2 323316/323528 Phone : +975 2 325042 Fax : +975 2 323518 Fax : +975 2 325475 email : [email protected] email : [email protected]