Mail to: ajay.vandary@gmail.com

STATUS AND CONSERVATION OF HIMALAYAN TAHR

(HEMITRAGUS JEMLAHICUS) IN APINAMPA CONSERVATION

AREA, DARCHULA

Ajay Bhandari

November, 2012

ii

Foreward

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my advisor Ms. Sushila Chaterjee and Mr.

Laxman Poudel for their valuable suggestions and guidance throughout my study in spite of

their busy schedule.

I would like to express my thanks to KAFCOL for providing me financial support to carry

out this study.

I am grateful to Dr. Bishnu Hari Pandit (Principal), Mr.Dipak Upadhaya, Mr.Murari Raj Joshi

and whole Kafcol Family for their continuous support during my studying period.

I am grateful to Mr.Lal Bihari Yadav and Mr.Mohan Lal Dhami of ANCA and all ANCA‟s

family for allowing me to conduct my study. I would like to express my bundle of thanks to

Mr.Dhan Singh Dhami, Mr. Haris Singh Dhami, Mr. Mahesh Mishra and Ms. Rewati

Budathoki, Mr. Jagat Budathoki, for their diligent support during the field stay at Darchula. I

also want to thank all local people, and herders for their patience while taking interviews and

providing useful information.

I would like to thank Mr. Shambhu Poudel for providing me secondary data during digital

map preparation and Mr. Prakash Thapa for literature review respectively. My thanks go to

my colleagues Mr Haris Singh Dhami, Mr. Prakash Thapa, Mr Bhuwan Raj Ojha, Mr Prakash

Shah for their support and all other colleagues‟ positive feedbacks in my research.

At last, I want to express my deep gratitude to my parents and brothers who had always gave

me enormous love, right direction and continuous support to accomplish the study.

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Summary

This study was carried out in Api Nampa Conservation Area which is situated in the Far

Western Development Region of country Nepal. The research work on status and

conservation of Himalayan tahr in Api Nampa Conservation Area was conducted during

October with the span of 25 days in the study area.

This study was carried out in Rapla VDC consisting of two villages’ i.e. Mal and Rapla.

According to the information given from interviewing the local people, specific sites for

Himalayan tahr was located. From the specific sites Direct Count Method was used by using

the binocular 2x magnification to estimate the status of Himalayan tahr.

A total of 58 individuals of different age and sex groups of Himalayan tahr were recorded

during the study in four different sites. Among them nine adult male, thirty seven adult female

and twelve fawn were recorded.

Local people also believed that the tahr population is declining. The encroachment of their

habitat is severe by the excessive livestock grazing and utilization for cattle Goths. Many

Goths were noticed in the study area. Many more causes for disturbances is poaching and

hunting. The conservation of this species seems to be vital as it is prime species of snow

leopard and other endangered species.

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Acronyms

ANCA Api Nampa Conservation Area

DNPWC Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation

GoN Government of Nepal

GPS Global Positioning System

IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature

MCA Musk Deer Conservation Area

NGO Non Governmental Organization

NPWC National Parks and Wildlife conservation

NTNC National Trust for Nature Conservation

VDC Village Development Committee

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Table of Contents

Chapter one: Introduction ................................................................................................................ 1

1.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Rationale of the study ................................................................................................................ 2

1.3 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 3

1.4 Limitations of the study ............................................................................................................... 3

Chapter Two Literature Review ....................................................................................................... 4

Chapter Three Methodology ............................................................................................................ .7

3.1 Study area ................................................................................................................................. .6

3.2 Materials and Methods. ........................................................................................................... …12

3.3 Data Analysis ......................................................................................................................... ...15

Chapter Four Results................................................................................................................ ……..17

4.1 Socio-economic aspect ................................................................................................... ………..17

4.2 Population size and Structure ................................................................................................. ...18

4.3 Population trend of tahr ........................................................................................................ ...20

4.4 Age-sex ratio........................................................................................................................... ...21

4.5 Conservation of Himalayan tahr ............................................................................................... .21

4.6 People’s perception on threats of Tahr ..................................................................................... .23

Chapter Five Discussion ................................................................................................................. .24

5.1 Population size and Structure .................................................................................................. …24

4.2 Conservation of Himalayan tahr ................................................................................................ 24

Chapter Six Conclusion and Recommendations ............................................................................. .26

6.1 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................... …26

6.2 Recommendations ..................................................................................................................... 26

Literature Cited ............................................................................................................................... 28

Annexes .......................................................................................................................................... 30

Annex 1 ........................................................................................................................................... 31

Annex 2 ........................................................................................................................................... 33

1

Chapter One

Introduction

1.1 Introduction

The Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus) is an evolutionary primitive form of wild goat,

popularly known as “jharal” in Nepali. Himalayan tahr is native to the southern range of the

Himalayan Mountains, and is dispersed from northern India east to Bhutan. There are also

populations in New Zealand, New Mexico, California, Ontario, and South Africa, which were

originally introduced for hunting. In South Island, New Zealand the species caused major

damage to the alpine tussock grasses until the late 1970s, when populations were effectively

managed by culling from helicopters.

In the Himalayas, tahr inhabit mountainous habitat, commonly between 2,500 and 5,000

meters depending on season and also time of day. In winter they tend to occupy lower slopes,

avoiding deep snow and frequenting southern cliffs where the vegetation is more exposed and

available for grazing or browsing. In New Zealand they live on grassy mountain slopes and

scrubland from 750 to 2250 meters in elevation, preferring the North facing slopes which are

sunnier and accumulate less snow in the winter The Himalayan tahr inhabits steep rocky

mountain sides, especially between 3,000-4,000 m asl, with woods and rhododendron scrub

(Chalise, 2010).

The major threats of Himalayan tahr are uncontrolled hunting and deforestation. In India,

Himalayan tahr is sometimes hunted for meat, and there is apparently significant competition

with livestock for summer grazing in some areas. Nevertheless, many areas of prime tahr

habitat are sufficiently isolated, rugged and seasonally snow-covered, that the degree of

disturbance, livestock grazing and habitat alteration by humans is minimized. In Nepal,

threats come from an expanding human population and accompanying increases in livestock,

habitat loss, poaching and access. As a result of these factors, tahr populations are becoming

increasingly isolated. Avalanches during winters with high snowfall also can be a significant

mortality factor for tahr (IUCN).

No current status of Himalayan tahr is known. Slowly and gradually the population of tahr

may decline and may become extinct from Nepal too. So, by understanding the importance of

2

these areas, frequent research and inventory is required for conservation of tahr. Habitat

quality assessment and research on the abundance of the tahr is vital. Presence of food

threshold indicates better habitat quality and ultimately the likelihood of presence of tahr.

1.2 Rationale of the study

Himalayan Tahr is classified as Near Threatened (NT) in the red list of International Union

for Conservation of Nature and Natural resources (IUCN, 2008).

Mammal diversity is reckoned as species-based indicator of terrestrial ecosystem health,

which has been a key feature in the park management. Many of the mammalian species

including Himalayan tahr are the focal species for biodiversity conservation in protected and

conservation areas (Lovari, 2008).

Livestock grazing and associated habitat degradation are considered as major reasons for

declining population of wild ungulates. In the Himalaya, livestock grazing has been practiced

for centuries. The adverse effects of the interference caused by man and his beasts on the

natural environment whether intentionally or accidently are well recognized. In the Himalaya,

the major causes of habitat degradation and loss both within and outside protected areas are

ill-planned developmental activities and uncontrolled levels of grazing by domestic ungulates

(Kala and Rawat).

Insufficient information exist on endangered species and their habitats especially the less

obvious ones. Conducting research and studies on rare and threatened species of wildlife to

generate better understanding of their population, habitat requirements and threats are

important activities suggested by park‟s management plan. Similarly, reducing wildlife

damage to crops and livestock is another management problem (Thakuri, 2009).

Not more study related to the Himalayan tahr was carried out so far in Api-Nampa

Conservation Area. In this condition the present study will initiate to explain the status,

distribution, biology and ecology of Himalayan tahr in Api-Nampa Conservation Area. This

comprehensive study include population surveys, analysis of socio-economic factors, site

specific conservation measures and development of community outreach or participation

3

programs. Therefore this study in the Api-Nampa will provide an addition to the existing

database of knowledge regarding the status, and conservation of Himalayan tahr in Nepal.

1.3 Objectives

The main aim of the study is to determine status, distribution pattern and conservation of

Himalayan tahr in Api Nampa conservation area.

Specific objectives

1 To estimate the status of tahr population in the study area.

2 To determine the people perception about the trend of tahr

3 To provide managerial recommendation for long term survival and conservation of tahr

population.

1.4 Limitations of the study

The weather was cold, hazy and cloudy, which do not allow working in higher elevation. Due

to steep topography it was difficult to create a transect line. The Himalayan tahrs were not

active during the working period. Due to tall shrubs, it became very difficult to walk and see

the animals in the field. At last financial constraint was a powerful barrier to conduct a deep

study.

4

Chapter Two

Literature Review

Wildlife and conservation

The productivity of an ecosystem depends to a great extent on the number and kinds of

biodiversity. Maintenance of biodiversity is therefore an important aspect of wildlife

conservation and management (Roth and Merz, 1997).

Nepal has given high priority in species conservation and strict protection of globally

endangered fauna through establishment of extensive network of protected Area (MFSC,

2002). Nepal initiated its conservation era with a species approach (Ale and Karki, 2003).

The modern era of wildlife conservation in nepal can be traced back to the enactment of the

National park and Wildlife Conservation (NPWC) Act- 1973 (HMG, 1973, Bajaracharya &

Dahal, 2008). The establishment of protected areas thereafter is itself seen as the response to

the threats faced by the wildlife and ecosystems from both natural and anthropogenic cause.

A major break though in practical conservation of high altitude wildlife has not yet occurred

to the degree required (Ale & Karki, 2003).

Himalayan tahr is the animal found only in Nepal, India and China and introduced in

Newzealand and in South Africa (Bhatnagar & Lovari, 2008). In Nepal, it has been in

Sagarmatha National Park, Shey-Phoksundo National Park, Annapurna conservation area,

Dhorpatan and in Api-Nampa Conservation Area.

Hughey and Wason, 2005 has conducted the research on “management of tahr in

Newzealand”. Himalayan tahrs are managed under the auspicious of the Himalayan tahr

control plan. The plan was reviewed in 2000 but was rolled over for the future five years

while the department developed generic conservation policies including those covering pest

species. The research concluded that thar are a resource, to be valued by farmers,

recreationists and other commercial interests, regionally and nationally. Moreover many

5

farmers already gain financially from tahr, thus providing a level of diversification that is not

otherwise available on many tahrs properties.

Dematteis et.al, 2006 conducted research on immobilization of Himalayan tahr with

xylozine-ketamine mixture and reversal with atipameozole in upper Khumbu valley of the

Sagarmatha National Park. Thirty six free ranging Himalayan tahrs (20 males and 10

females) were chemically immobilized. The research also suggests xyolizine and ketamine

are the chemicals that have safety margins for immobilization of tahr (Dematteis, 2006).

In Nepal “A case study of the Himalyan Tahr and the Snow Leopard has been conducted in

Sagarmatha National Park” to know the prey predator relationship between them (Ale and

Brown, 2009). The study conclude that vigilance behavior of the tahr indicates predator in

risk associated with snow leopard distribution and habitat use within valleys, but not

necessarily snow leopard distribution across different valleys. Since Sagarmatha lacks the

principal prey like blue sheep, Pseudo nayaur, so tahr is supposed to be principal prey for it.

The return of snow leopards to Sagarmatha may be reflected in the tahr‟s degree of alertness

towards predators. A wealth of empirical evidence suggests that predation risk is a primary

reason for alertness in animals (Ale and Brown, 2009).

Gurung, 1995 conducted a master thesis on “population, habitat selection and conservation of

Himalayan tahr in the Annapurna sanctuary”. A study of Himalayan tahr population indicated

that thar is a hardy population of the animal in the area. The study also reported 20% increase

in the population of tahr over a five year period (Ale and Shrestha, 2001).

Kittur et.al, 2009 conducted research on “assessment of spatial and habitat use overlap

between Himalayan tahr and livestock in Kedarnath wildlife sanctuary, India”. The research

concluded that the use of vegetation categories by livestock was more or less uniform unlike

the tahr, whish predominately used the subalpine scattered tree and scrub category. Tahr

demonstrated a narrow preference for altitude and slope when compared to livestock which

don‟t show preference for any other category.

6

Dr. Chalise, M.K, 2011, conducted the study of Himalayan tahr in ANCA. The study entitled

„status monitoring of Himalayan tahr in ANCA‟ concluded the abundance of Himalayan tahr.

He also stated that although the number of jharal seems satisfactory there are many threats

which need to be addressed to reduce poaching of Himalayn tahr.

Lovari, S, 1992, conducted a research in Sagarmatha National Park. The research entitled

Observations of the Himalyan tahr and Other Ungulates of the Sagarmatha National Park,

Khumbu Himal, Nepal concluded that the tahr was the most common caprice whose

altitudinal distribution was assessed from sightings and pellet presence ranged from 2700 m

to about 4500 m.

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Chapter Three

Methodology

3.1 Study area

3.1.1 Location

Api Nampa conservation area is newly declared conservation area by GoN in 2010 A.D. It is

situated in the Far Western Development region of Nepal. It covers an area of 1,903 km2

between 29° 30′ to 30° 15′ North Latitude and 80° 22′ to 81° 09′ East Longitude. It varies in

altitude from 518 to 7132 m. It is the Boundary District having boundary of Bajhang in the

East, International boundary of Mahakali River in the west, International boundary with Tibet

Autonomous Region of China in the North and Laku River and Naugadh in the South.

3.1.2 Topography

ANCA maintains unique topography between two Asian country India and China. The

mountains in this region are Api Himal (7132m) Nampa Himal (6757m), Byans Himal (6670)

and many others. The altitude range in this region is from 539m – 7132m. The eastern corner

strikes with Tibet so the topography is steep and sloppy. The rocks found in this area are

limestone, schist, gneiss, sediment which can cause landslides in monsoon. The others rocks

are Granite, Pegmatite, Phylite and Quartzite.

3.1.3 Climate

The climate of the area is generally characterized by high rainfall and humidity. The climatic

condition varies along with the elevation gradient. Climate of the ANCA varies widely from

sub-tropical to alpine. In the north, most of the parts remain under snow having alpine

climate. In the Southern part and valleys the climate is subtropical. Mid- hills has temperate

type. The average maximum temperature is 18.6°C and the minimum temperature is 7.7°C

and average rainfall is 2129mm. Most precipitation falls between May and September.

8

Source: DNPWC

Fig. map of the study area

9

3.1.4 Vegetation

The vegetation and forest comprises of sub-tropical, temperate, sub alpine and alpine forests

within the Api Nampa Conservation Area. Pine and Quercus forests dominate the vegetation

at the lower elevations. Above 3,500m, the forest is dominated with silver fir, birch,

rhododendron, and juniper trees. The tree line is at 4,500m, where birch gives way to juniper

and rhododendron scrubs. The sub alpine zone represents higher number of flowering plants.

Among the 35 types of vegetation found in Nepal following are the vegetation types found in

ANCA:

Sub-Tropical forest

The subtropical forest is found in the lower belt of ANCA below the attitude range of

1600m. Sal forest is found in four VDCs of the Conservation Area namely Seri, Latinath,

Khandesori, and Tapoban. The subtropical forest of ANCA comprises hill Sal forest and

Shrub land.

Temperate forest

The temperate forest types comprises Western Himali Fir, Hemlok and Oak Forest (Dhari

VDC) and Juniperus Forest. The temperate forest species are found in the lower part of the

region The main temperate forest species of this region are Oak (Quercus semecarpifolia),

Angari (Lyonia ovalifolia), Bains (Salix spp), Bhote pipal etc. The Quercus species is the

dominant species in the upper mountain zone but former stands of this species like

Abiesspectabilis have been colonized by Pinus spp. Rhododendron arboreum, R. triflorum,

and Taxus baccata,are associated with pine at lower altitudes. Shrubs include Pieris formosa,

Cotoneaster microphyllus, R. lepidotum. Vine Parthenocissus himalayan and

Clematismontana are also common and other low altitude trees include maple Acer

campbellii and white beam (Sorbus cuspidate).

Sub-Alpine forest

Broadleaf Pinus mixed forest, Pinus wallichiana forest, Betula spp forest, Fir Abies forest,

Hemlock forest and Walnut forest are found in this region. The lower sub-alpine forests

10

above 3,000m altitude represents by blue pine (Pinus wallichiana), silver fir (Abies

spectabilis) and fir-juniper (Junipers recur). Upper sub-alpine forest species above 3,600m

represents birch-rhododendron forest (Bitola utilize, Rhododendron campanulas and R.

campylocarpum).

Alpine forest

Juniper forest, cotneaster forest, betula utilis forest and Dwarf Rhododendron forest are

found.The lower alpine forest above the timber-line at 3,800-4,000m, represents scrub

(Juniperus spp., Rhododendron anthopogon and R. lepidotum); and upper alpine, above

4,500m, represents grassland and dwarf shrubs; and sub-nival Zone with cushion plants from

5,500m to 6,000m. Oak (Quercus semicarpifolia) was formerly more extensive but now only

small area remain .Above 3,000m forms stands with Rhododendron campanulatum or Betula

utilis are good sites. Towards the tree line, R. campanulatum is generally dominant. Juniperus

indica occurs above 4,000m, where conditions are drier and with dwarf rhododendrons and

cotoneasters, shrubby cinquefoil (Potentilla fruticosa var. rigida), willow (Salix sikkimensis)

and Cassipe fastigiata.

In association with the shrub complex there are a variety of herbs as well such as Gentiana

prolata, G. stellata, edelweiss (Leontopodium stracheyi, Codonopsis thalictrifolia, and

Thalictrum chelidonii), lilies (Lilium nepalense and Notholirion macrophyllum, Fritillaria

cirrhosa) and primroses, (Primula denticulate, P. atrodentata, P. wollastonii and

P.sikkimensis). The shrub layer diminishes as conditions become cooler and above 5,000m

Rhododendron nivale is the sole representative of its genus. NTFP found in Api Nampa

Conservation Area are: Panchaunle (Dactylorhiza hatagirea), Kutki

(Neopicrorhizascrophulariflora), Yartsagumbu (Cordyceps sinensis),

Jatamansi (Nardostachys grandiflora), Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia serpentine), Sugandhawal

(Valeriana jatamansi) and many more.More than 68 types of medicinal plants are recorded

from ANCA so far.

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3.1.5 Fauna

The sub-tropical, temperate, sub alpine, alpine vegetation and forest of ANCA encompasses suitable

habitat for wildlife species including common, rare, endangered, and vulnerable and other IUCN

category species.

The species of mammals including Musk Deer, Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Himalayan tahr,

Ghoral, Himalayan Black Bear, and Serow etc are found in the ANCA. Large mammals

commonly seen in the CA are the Himalayan Tahr, Blue sheep and Musk deer.

Other large mammals include: common langur (Presbytis entellus), jackal (Canis aureus),

small number of grey wolf (Canis lupus) (V), Himalayan black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus)

(V), Red panda (Ailurus fulgens) (V), snow leopard (Uncia uncia) (E), Himalayan musk deer

(Moschus chrysogaster), Serow (Capricornis sumatraensis) (I), Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus

jemlahicus) (K) and goral (Nemorhaedus goral etc). The ANCA provides habitats of birds

including Daphne (Impeyan pheasant), Munal, Snow Chock, Blood pheasant, Red billed

chough, and Yellow-billed chough etc.

3.1.6 Socio-economic aspects

The changing economic and social arrangements have made it difficult for rural people to

have access to the basic agricultural resources and remote places such as Darchula have

begun to experience changes in their social and political structure, economic life and cultural

values (Gurung, 1998).

ANCA encompasses 21 Village Development Committees of Darchula district (Byas, Rapla,

Ghusa, Khandeswori, Sunsera, Aairkot, Shitola, Guljar, Hikila, Dhaulakot, Piperchauri, Huti,

Tapoban, Brahmadev, Dhari, Chapari, Katai, Simti, Sheri and Latinath). My study area

covers only one VDC of ANCA with two villages (Mal and Rapla). Altogether there are 205

household in Rapla VDC.

ANCA people are highly dominated by tradition and customs. The majority of the people

living in Rapla belong to Sauka and Chettri.

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Livestock farming is the main occupation of the people in ANCA for subsistence economy.

Agriculture is the alternative occupation to make the living of the people; however, the crop

production is low. Besides, some people are engaged in hotels and shops for their occupation

as source of income.

Livestock movement is between 3000m – 5000m elevation and is held from May to

September. In winter, they come down to lower elevation at 2000m. Sheep and goats are

grouped in to several herds for the summer grazing. These animals are usually grazed in the

meadows, which are the habitat of many wild ungulates like tahr, musk deer etc. in summer,

the herders make temporary shed or Goths for herding the cattles.

3.2 Materials and Methods:

3.2.1 Materials

The main materials used during the field study were:

1. G.P.S

2. Binocular with 2x magnification

3. 12.2 mega pixel camera

4. 30m measuring tape

5. Data sheets

6. Compass

7. Map of the study area

8. Pencils

GPS was used to create the locations. Binocular was used for sighting the animals. Camera

was used to capture the photographs, tape was used to create the lines and measuring the

diameters of species, data sheets to fill the data, compass to know the aspect of the tahr

habitat, map to find out the way for the specific sites and pencils to fill the data and draw the

rough sketch.

13

3.2.2 Methods

Primary Data Collection

A detailed field study was conducted during September-October, 2012. It was collected

through direct and indirect observations, vegetation analysis of the habitat and consultation

with key-informants in the study site. Consultation with the local old persons, gave valuable

information about Himalayan tahr. With the information from the elite person, villagers,

herders, teachers, ANCA staffs and other key persons of the village it became easy to explore

the study area.

Population Size and Structure

The ultimate objective of the baseline survey /studies of mammals were to prepare the

reliable database and information regarding the current status of mammals. It was also to

explore the possibilities of wildlife interaction with people. Basically the following methods

are applied for this study that will cover the investigation and study of animals.

Concrete team building is necessary that leads to accuracy of field work. ANCA staff led the

team. Mr. Dhan Singh Dhami and Mr. Mahesh Mishra and carried out socio-economic

aspects for this study. Assistants, field guides and porters accompanied the team members.

All the members of study team were given an orientation training regarding format fill up,

observation of wildlife and their activities, movement.

Techniques that could be used in this study were discussed. This was done to avoid biasness.

a) Selection of Probable habitats:

Api Nampa Conservation Area is large occurring 21 village development committees making

an area of 1903 sq.km varying in altitude from 539m to 7321m. Probable habitat of

Himalayan tahr in ANCA can be considered about 15% of the total area. Four sites were

assessed to estimate the Himalayan tahr number. GPS was used to plot maps.

14

b) Information Collection and Record Maintain:

Night stay was done near the Himalayan tahr habitat. Binocular was used for sighting the

animals. All the counts were carried out early morning, during the first three hours after

sunrise as counts need to be carried out at the time of highest animal movements (Chalise

2009, Sutherland, 1996). Opportunistic observations were added to the list so as not to miss

any species during the survey period. Animals were identified using books (Shrestha 1997).

While walking for identification of potential habitat for important wildlife species, the efforts

were targeted to find out their population, density, feeding habitat, breeding ground and also

for their regular activities.

c) Census:

Distance Sampling was used to estimate density of the population. In this case, line transect

sampling was used and during the travel along transect records and the presence of wild

animals were recorded. The entire animals observed during the forest walk were recorded as

the number and the composition of the group (Sutherland, 1996). The GPS coordinates of the

encountering points were recorded for each location. Censuses were conducted whenever

animal seen in each location.

The indirect evidences were supported by the local people information generated by the

questionnaire survey or interviews (Altmann, 1974; Sutherland, 1996).

To determine the trend of tahr population

The trend of tahr was studied on the basis of available authentic data from DNPWC, and the

field technicians identifying the potential areas. At the same time the available output from

the primary data will be correlated. For, this intensive literature was searched and available

data will be analyzed.

15

To determine the managerial recommendation for conservation of tahr

Questionnaire survey

A set of questionnaire was prepared to know the threats for the Himalayan tahr. Following

considerations were made during the questionnaire survey (shown at annex 1).

For accessing the conservation methods, local people were asked questions by using

questionnaire. Also the indications of human disturbance in the habitat like waste, cut stump,

trampling and grazing intensity were observed in each quadrate. The livestock dung if found

in the quadrates were recorded to find out the livestock pressure in the study area.

Discussions like focus group, key informant survey is done among the relevant stakeholders

to access the threats to the Himalayan tahr in the study area.

Secondary data

Data were collected from wildlife monitoring reports and other reports published by WWF,

National Trust for Nature Conservation(NTNC), ICIMOD library, DNPWC library, field

technicians, and concerned organizations for identifying potential areas also from internet

surfing.

3.3 Data analysis

Conservation

Interviewing local people and direct observation of the field were the sources of data to

assess disturbances in Himalayan tahr habitat. Livestock dung encountered within the

quadrates were recorded to find out livestock pressure in that area and Cut stumps found

during quadrate survey were also recorded for the disturbance assessment (Karki, 2009).

Total No. of Cattle Dung encountered

Cattle Dunk Density/ha = × 10000

No. of quadrates × Area of a quadrate

16

Socio-economic analysis

The socio-economic data entails the overall condition of the VDC. There were 205 numbers

of households in Rapla VDC. The number of household that was taken is 35. In socio-

economic analysis, caste, occupation, literacy rate among different age group is important.

The respondents were classified into 4 groups to identify the literacy rate and they were

concluded as literate and illiterate. Similarly the respondents were classified in to 4 groups to

know there occupation status.

All the data were analyzed by SPSS and MS-Excel.

17

Chapter Four

Results

4.1 Socio economic aspects

Caste

The Rapla vdc is dominated by two castes i.e Chettri and Saukas (janajati). More than 60

percent belongs to Chettri and rest belong to Saukas group. The division of caste is shown in

the chart below:

Fig.1 showing caste of the respondent in percent

Occupation

18

Among 30 respondents taken out of 205, 18 respondents depend on farming, 5 respondents

on civil service, 2 on teachers and rest as others (students and others) for the source of

income.

Fig.2 Occupation of the respondent

From the socioeconomic analysis, it is concluded that Dhami and Budathoki dominates the

village. The people are mainly forest dependent. Most of them were the farmers. This shows

that the local people are using forest for their livelihood and disturbing the habitat of tahr.

4.2 Population size and structure

Altogether 8 different wild mammals were recorded by direct observation and basically

supported by local people opinion. However, local people say different name to different

wildlife. Sometimes it makes repetition in record. Local people of ANCA named tiger to

common leopard. Researcher is pretty sure that common leopard and clouded leopard must be

the species that local is commonly called as tiger in higher elevation. The abundance of

Himalayan tahr is good.

Among the recorded animals four species is protected by Nepal Government Act, 2029 while

two species has status as Endangered and two species ranked Vulnerable by IUCN listing.

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

20

farmer service teacher others

no

. of

resp

on

de

nts

Occupation of the Respondents

19

The Himalayan thar is abundant and in large number animal of the project area while

common animals are Barking deer, Blue sheep, Ghoral, jackal, porcupine and monkeys. The

local respondent and key informants submitted the view that those animals interacting with

agriculture field in different seasons. They are frequently seen by local people around the

marginal areas of forest habitat and along the cropland of distant areas from the human

settlements.

Among all the animals, Himalayan tahr was systematically recorded by the support of local

informant. A total of four herds comprising 58 individuals were recorded in the study area of

14 sq km. population density was therefore 4.2 tahr/sq.km. There were 9 male 37 females and

12 fawns in the study area. Population of tahr is shown on the figure below.

Table1. No. of tahr population according to sites(including male adults, female adults and

fawns

Specific

sites

No. of Adult

males

No. of Adult

females

No. of Fawns Total

Phallekha _ 2 2 4

Kodhari 5 17 4 26

Jyati 1 4 3 8

Gorakhnath

C.F

3 14 3 20

Total 9 37 12 58

Source: field report.

The tahr population in total numbers according to the given sites is shown in the figure

below.

20

Fig.3 No. of tahr population in the respective specific sites.

4.3 Population trend of thar

Fig.4 Respondents‟ response to trend of tahr population.

Among 30 respondent taken 12 respondent believed that the tahr population is increasing, 15

respondent believed its decreasing and 1 believed its stable and rest doestnt know the

condition of the tahr population. The main reason that many of them believed the population

is declining may be the threats to Himalayan tahr.

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

Phallekha Kodhari Jyati Gorakhnath C.F

no

. of

tah

r p

op

ula

tio

nTahr population in ANCA

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

increasing decreasing stable don't know

no

.of r

esp

on

den

t

population trend of tahr

21

4.4 Age- sex ratio

Altogether 58 individuals were classified to their respective sex and age classes. The average

adult sex ratio was 1 male per 5 adult female. Young to adult female ratio was 1 young to

four females.

4.5 Conservation of Himalayan tahr

Fig.5 Respondents view for conservation of tahr.

Data collected from the interview with the local people showed thet they were in favour of

conservation of Himalayan tahr. 34 percent of them wanted it to conserve for future

generations and to enhance tourism industry was 30 percent. More than 10 percent of the

respondents showed their importance for religious purpose. However about 15 percent of the

respondents didn‟t have any idea about the conservation of Himalayan tahr.

Threats Assessment

Livestock grazing can be regarded as the main threat followed by poaching and hunting for

meat, firewood, timber collection in the study area. The grazing record was found up to

3700m.This is because of the people living nearby. Most of the Goths were around 2800m

12%

34%

30%

10%

14%

Respondents view for conservation of tahr

Religious belief

Future generations

Tourist industry

Assests

Don't know

22

and the disturbances were intense around the Goth. Thus this area is the habitat of Himalayan

tahr but is interfered by the human activities regularly. The observed habitat interference was

all so noted and analyzed to find out threats on Himalayan tahr.

Grazing

Grazing was found to be common in the study area. Presence of huge amount of cattle dung

shows grazing is intense in the study area. Most of the household has livestock and they are

grazed in the habitat area of Himalayan tahr. In an average, there were around 25-30 sheep

kept by the people living above 2800m altitude. In an average there is more than 10-15

numbers of Goths in the study area.

For livestock pressure assessment, cattle dung density (CDD) inside the forest area was

calculated. This revealed 22 dung/ha. Higher cattle dung density indicated higher livestock

pressure in the forest.

Habitat Destruction

Firewood collection was the main energy source for cooking in Rapla vdc. In their daily

activities they used large quantity of firewood for the cooking and heating purposes.

Numbers of cut stumps were also recorded from the sampled plots for assessing the threats to

the red panda. Cut stump density (CD) was found to be 32.5/ha. Trampling and browsing by

cattle harmed in growth and development of the regenerations in forest. There were signs of

forest fire in ward no 6 in the Rapla VDC which have damaged the habitat of Himalayan tahr.

Poaching and Hunting

Poaching of Himalayan tahr in the area was also a major problem but they were either

trapped or they were directly shot. They were killed for the meat and skin.

23

Predation

There was no direct evidence of predation of Himalayan tahr in the study area. However,

different possible predators like Black Bear, Common Leopard, and Snow Leopard etc. were

said to be present in the area.

4.6 People’s perception on threats to Himalayan tahr in Rapla VDC of Darchula district

Majority of the population of the Rapla and Mal VDC responded that grazing was the

common problem in the of the tahr habitat. Fire and destruction of forest were the threats

respectively with 22% and 15% respectively. As the result of firewood/bamboo collection it

accounts 34% and 20% people responded that hunting and predation was the reason for the

threats to Himalayan tahr in Darchula district.

Fig.6 Major threats to Himalayan tahr in Darchula district

However, Williams (2004) and Poudel (2009) reported as the predation as a major threat in

Manang district in Nepal as well as this study shows that predation is the major concerned

threats to tahr in Rapla VDC. The chauris which were found up to 3500m clearly shows that

it has adverse effects in the habitat and distribution of tahr because of which chauris are

creating problems and disturbances in their mating activities.

7%

24%

34%

15%

20%

Threats to Himalayan tahr

Fire

Grazing

firewood collection

Destruction of forest

Hunting

24

Chapter Five

Discussion

The pioneer study on the Himalayan tahr in ANCA was done by Chalise in 2010. This is the

second study on this species and was carried out in Rapla VDC. The main objective is to find

out the status and raise awareness of Himalayan tahr. Some of the discussions about this

study are:

5.1 Population size and structure

Himalayan tahr, a trophy animal lives in social herds. Direct count method was conducted for

this research. In this study 58 individuals of tahr were recorded. Similar method was applied

by Chalise (2011) in ANCA.

The herd size varied from 4 to 26 individuals where as Green (1978), in Lantang valley

recorded average group size of 15 and largest 77 maternal herds, in Annapurna sanctuary in

maternal groups ranged in size 1-57 where male herds were 1-13 (Gurung, 1995). In

dhorpatan average size of tahr varied from 3-16 in different sub-habitats holding different

number of tahrs (Austergard & Haugland, 1993).

Culton Brock et.al (1982) suggested that there are various advantages to living in group.

Group size and structure is in some extend hereditary. Group size reflects both predator

pressure and food supply. Larger groups help both in flight and defense. The average adult

sex ratio was 1 male per 5 female and 1 young per 4 female. This problem may create

biasness while detecting groups in difficult terrain.

5.2 Conservation of Himalayan tahr

Wildlife population doesn‟t remain static. Increase or decrease occurs in nature and

anthropogenic pressure further acute problem and may have profound impact. Unlike the

parks like Sagarmatha National parks where the VDCs have to bear more anthropogenic

pressure because it is famous for trekking, Rapla VDC have to bear less population pressure.

25

People had no any kind of belief or interesting story about tahr in Rapla VDC whereas

Gurung (1995) in Annapurna Sanctuary reported that local people used the tahr bones soup as

a good treatment against malaria. In Rapla, during interview most of the respondents agreed

about the existence of poaching. Some of them were afraid to say about it. Adhikari (2004)

reported that the government officials killed 14 Himalayan tahr in Lantang area in 2002 and

26 musk deer were also found on dead condition on musk deer conservation area (MCA) in

2001. Livestock occupies tahr habitat during the rainy season.

The people living in Rapla VDC were aware about the importance of wild animals that was

all due to the intervention of ANCA and I believe that this research would also help the local

people to become more aware of the tahr and its importance.

26

Chapter Six

Conclusion and Recommendations

6.1 Conclusion

The conclusions of my study are:

The total population of Himalayan tahr was estimated 58 individuals out of which 9

male, 37 female and 12 fawns were noticed. Himalayan tahr preferred higher altitude

about 3000-5000m but they can be found at an altitude of 2500m in the winter season.

They are seen in early morning during the sunrise and at early sunset.

Mostly rocky sites are preffered by the tahr. Nigalo, Thutney, Rauli are the species

preffered by jharal.

Heavy grazing and poaching for meat and skin and other anthropogenic factors like

collection of firewood, fodder and mainly NTFPs are the major threats to thar.

Presence of huge number of Goths shows the competition for food between the

livestock and tahr. Although the number of tahr seems to be satisfactory, there are

many threats which need to be addressed to reduce poaching of Himalayan tahr.

6.2 Recommendations

Study of jharal if conducted during April-May or August-September gives better result.

Poaching is alarming the population of Himalayan tahr that should be stopped with the help

of local people. Conservation awareness activities should be widely performed. Regular

monitoring should be done to keep information updated and take proper management

decision. Some of the other recommendations are:

1. The conservation based tourism program should be launched

2. Government resource managers, conservation NGOs and development agencies

should undertake efforts that will help to promote livestock grazing and reduce

impacts to wildlife

3. Herders and their voices should be addressed for effective conservation of tahr

27

4. Regular monitoring of the population status of tahr is essential in yearly basis through

which we can ensure the support for the endangered species.

5. Formal and non-formal program for the conservation of endangered species should be

carried out.

28

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ANNEXES

31

Annex 1

Household survey

A. General Information

Format No…

1. Respondents/Name………………………………

2. Age…….

3. VDC/village/district…………….

4. Occupation………………………

5. Literacy

B. Status

2. How often do you go to the forest?

………………………………………………………………………………………………….

3. Do you know about Himalayan Tahr?

Yes No

4. Have you ever seen Jharal in forest?

Yes No

5. Where are they found?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

6. Would you please provide the name of specific sites where Jharal are found inside the

forest?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………..

7. Do you know the number of Himalayan tahr in this forest?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………..

8. Do you know about the behaviors of Himalayan tahr? (Food, habitat, reproduction).

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

32

9. Do they harm people or livestock?

Yes No

What is harmed……………………………………………………………

10. Do you know tahr being killed by human/animal in your area? (If yes why?)

(Potential areas of poaching)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

11. Do you know about the population trend of panda?

Increasing Decreasing Stable Don't know

12. Have you noticed any changes in habitat structure?

Yes No

what changes……………………………………………………………….

13. In your opinion what may be the threats to Himalayan tahr?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

14. What do you think about importance of tahr?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

15. What can be the conservation measures to conserve Himalayan tahr?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

16. Do you have any Gotha inside the forest?

Yes No

If yes where? ........................................................................................

17. What other wildlife you have seen in the forest?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

……

33

Annex 2

Threats and Disturbance

Grazing by livestock: (specify the species) Poaching

No. of cattle dung (in the plot): Fire

Other signs (in the plot)

Other wildlife signs (in the plot)

Distance from human settlements:

Human disturbance:

Presence of trails: Y/N

Litter collection

Looping of trees and shrubs

Other products collection:

Threat assessment

Total No. of Cattle Dung encountered

Cattle Dunk Density/ha = × 10000

No. of quadrates × Area of a quadrate

Total no, of cut stumps encountered

Cut Stump Density = × 10000

No. of quadrates × Area of a quadrate

Grazing Intensity = Livestock Number × Weekly Duration Spent