007325   Ramakrishnan B;Ilakkia M;Ramkumar (Zoology & Wildlife Biology Dep, Government Arts College, Udhagamandalam, The Nilgiris, Email: bio.bramki@gmail.com) : Use of shade trees for asian elephant (Elephas maximus) in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, Southern India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2014, 7(3), 144-50.

Importance of shade trees to elephants was studied from December to March 2012 in dry deciduous, moist deciduous, and thorn forest areas of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. The objectives included time activity budget of elephants and assessment of shade trees used by elephants. Resting was the major diurnal activity of elephants recorded under shade trees. Evidences of dung piles, feeding signs and sleeping signs concluded that the shade trees were more extensively used by elephants mainly for resting especially during the dry season. Shade trees were more extensively used by female led family groups than solitary ones. Signs of mud bath by elephants were commonly noticed in dry deciduous forest as a function of thermoregulation. A total of seventy two shade trees were recorded in all three habitats together. Density of shade trees was more in thorn forest due to unavailability of regeneration and recruitments of plants. Number of shade tree species and their dominance varied among habitat types. A total of 33 tree species were found to be utilized for resting activity by elephants. Plant species namely Mangifera indica, Anogeissus latifolia, Acacia intia, Tectona grandis, and Butea monosperma were heavily used by elephants for shade. The present study concluded that shade trees are important for elephants especially during dry season in order to get thermoregulation and also nurse their calves from extreme temperature.

8 tables, 21 ref

007324   Pandiyan J;Nagarajan R (Zoology and Wildlife Biology Research Dep, A.V.C. College (Autonomous), Mannampandal, Tamilnadu-609 305, Email: dunlinpandiyan@gmail.com) : Agricultural wetlands as alternative habitats for waterbirds. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2014, 7(3), 154-7.

Intensive loss of natural wetlands as a consequence of human activities has lead to the use of new habitats by the species linked to water presence. In India, thousands of hectares of agricultural lands are used by waterbirds as alternative habitats. For this study, wintering waterbirds were counted in the agricultural lands found in three districts of Tamilnadu during 2005 to 2010 and totally 89,217 birds belonged to 69 species were recorded. The study indicated that the agricultural wetlands are providing alternate habitats for waterbirds. Therefore, the long-term information provided here can be useful for establishing management strategies for these agricultural wetlands.

36 ref

007323   Mohanraj S;Pandiyan J (Zoology & Wildlife Biology Research Dep, AVC College (Autonomous), Mannampandal, Mayiladuthurai-609 305, Email: m.prathap87@yahoo.com) : Invasion of shorebirds into inland wetlands of Periyakulam lake, Tiruchirappalli, Southern India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2014, 7(3), 113-17.

The loss of feeding areas in the intertidal coastal wetlands may pose a threat to many wintering waders such as plovers and sandpipers. Wetlands are the major feeding habitats for water and shorebirds. The birds were estimated by total count method during 06.00 am to 06.00 pm weekly. Totally ten species of plover and sandpiper were observed from January-2011 to December-2012. The overall bird density was noted maximum during the monsoon period of first and second years. The density, diversity, and species varied significantly between the years and among the seasons (P<60>0.05). The present indicated that the shorebirds such as plovers and sandpipers are shifting their feeding ground from coastal mudflats into inland wetlands.

4 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

006309   Mariappan P;Vignesh Raj S;Balasundaram C (Zoology PG & Research Dep, Rajah Serfoji Government College (Aut), Thanjavur-613 005, Email: mnobilii@rediffmail.com) : Conservation of bats. Curr Sci 2013, 104(6), 689.

^ssc1 illus, 3 ref

006308   Ghosal R;Venkataraman A (Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: ratnaghosal@yahoo.com) : Adaptive system of vigilance in spotted deer (Axis axis) herds in response to predation. Curr Sci 2013, 104(6), 768-71.

Spotted deer or chital (Axis axis), a major prey species in southern India, lives in large groups. To understand the benefits of group living, we carried out observations on chital herds under natural conditions. Individual and group vigilance showed a negative correlation with herd size, whereas the latter had a positive correlation with proportion of vigilant individuals. Furthermore, individual vigilance was negatively correlated with proportion of individuals vigilant and positively correlated with group vigilance. These results are explained in the context of a three-phase vigilance system, probably operative in the chital herd, under specified ecological conditions. We surmise that this system allows for adaptation to pre-dation risk and has possibly co-evolved with the optimal hunting strategy of the predator.

35 ref

006307   Abrol D P (Entomology Div, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Fac, Chatha Jammu 180 009, Email: dharam_abrol@rediffmail.com) : Conservation of bee trees as world heritage sites. Curr Sci 2013, 104(7), 812-13.

1 illus

005266   Ocloo A;Holbech L H;Gbogbo F (Biochemistry Dep, Cell and Molecular Biology, Ghana Univ, Legon, Ghana, Email: fgbogbo@ug.edu.gh) : Mitochondrial DNA density of peripheral white blood cells as a possible bio-marker of migratory status in partially migrating bird populations. Ecol Envir Conserv 2013, 19(3), 891-7.

With the novelty of bird banding, radar studies, satellite tracking and systematic field observations, major advances have been made in understanding the complexity of bird migration. However, in the quest to determine the migratory status of individuals in partially migrating bird populations, most of these methods come with major disadvantages. Given that the proportion of migrants and non-migrants in partial migration populations could indicate trends in the success of the migratory process and the selection pressure on migratory bird populations, the need for research into identifying an affordable and direct method of determining the migratory status of partial migrants cannot be overemphasized. This paper generates a new platform for research into distinguishing individuals in a partially migratory populations based on acquired differences in mitochondrial biogenesis. The complexity of this kind of research and the variety of skills required for its execution, calls for the promotion of the idea.

47 ref

003173   Ravindra Singh;Ajay Kumar;Rajpoot P S (NO, Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidhyalaya, Citrakoot, Madhya Pradesh, Email: rajaykumarg@gmail.com) : Spatial analysis of tiger habitat suitability in Panna Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh, India. Life Sci Bull 2013, 10(1), 95-8.

Panna Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh covers an area of about 543 sq km; it is a natural habitat for tiger survival. At present, in reserve area human interference is increasing at a fast rate. Natural suitability for tiger habitat in Panna Tiger Reserve using remote sensing and GIS showed that most suitable areas were found in Western part of the tiger reserve (13.95%). Suitable areas were scatterly distributed all over the Panna Tiger Reserve (60.02%). Moderate suitable areas were found in eastern part (22.06%). Least or not suitable area was negligible. Accordingly management of the tiger reserve is proposed.

1 illus, 5 tables, ref

002146   Herlekar I (NO, , , Email: iherlekar@gmail.com) : Architect of one's own destruction. Curr Sci 2014, 106(7), 917-18.

4 illus, 2 ref

001118   Sengupta P;Banerjee K K;Ghorai N (Zoology Dep, West Bengal State University, Berunanpukaria, Malikapur, Barasat, District-24 Parganas (North), Kolkata, West Bengal-700 126, Email: panchali_17sg@yahoo.com) : Seasonal diversity of butterflies and their larval food plants in the surroundings of upper Neora Valley National Park, a sub-tropical broad leaved hill forest in the eastern Himalayan landscape, West Bengal, India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(1), 5327-42.

Seasonal butterfly diversity in the adjacent areas of the upper Neora Valley National Park, a part of the Himalayan landscape, was studied. The available larval host plant resources present within, as well as in the adjoining areas of transect were identified. A total of 4163 butterflies representing 161 species belonging to five families were recorded during this study. One-hundred-and-forty-three species of plants belonging to 44 families served as the larval food plants of butterflies. The maximum number of butterfly species and maximum number of individuals were sampled during the monsoons. The monsoons with least skewed rank abundance curve of species distribution, was also marked by maximum species diversity and maximum species evenness. This was probably due to the abundant distribution of luxurious vegetation that served as food plants for the larval stages of butterflies. Nymphalidae was the most dominant family with 43.48% of the total number of species. Autumn followed by the monsoon was associated with high species richness probably due to the abundance of vegetation that provides foliage to its larval stages.

3 illus, 6 tables, 48 ref

001117   Roy S;Ghosh J;Das G;Mitra B (Zollogical Survey of India, , M Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal) : Diversity of beetles (Coleoptera) in the salt lake city, Kolkata. Bionotes 2014, 16(3), 98.

2 ref

001116   Ramanujam M E;Brooks S J (Pitchandikulam Bioresource Centre / Pitchandikulam Forest Consultants, , Auroville, Tamil Nadu-605 101, Email: ericramanujamowl@yahoo.com) : Wildlife art and illustration: drawing in ink - some experiments in Auroville, - 18 - India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(1), 5343-56.

The various styles employed by some artists at the Pitchandikulam studio in Auroville International Township are discussed and some works analysed and commented upon. The basic history and applications of pen and ink drawing and black and white illustration are touched upon and the various schools of thought mentioned and discussed - from it simply being technically accurate and easily printed, to the conundrums with which it is beset.

38 ref

001115   Qureshi A A;Bhagat R C;Bhat D M (P.G. Zoology Dep, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, Email: draijazphd@gmail.com) : Diversity of butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea and Hesperoidea) of Dachigam National Park, Jammu and Kashmir, India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(1), 5389-92.

This preliminary study documented the diversity of butterflies of Dachigam National Park from 2004 to 2007.The field investigation was confined mostly to lower areas of the National Park and 27 species of butterflies were recorded. Except Hesperiidae, all the families were mostly active from April to August. 18 species showed mud puddling behaviour. Junonia orithya (Linnaeus) (Blue Pansy) and Neptis sappho Pallas (Pallas' Sailer) are reported for the first time from Kashmir Valley.

1 table, 27 ref

001114   Kumbar S M;Lad S B (Zoology Dep, Arts, Commerce and Science College, Palus, Sangli District, Maharashtra-416 310, Email: smkumbar@rediffmail.com) : Diversity, threats and conservation of catfish fauna of the Krishna River, Sangli District, Maharashtra, India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(1), 5362-7.

The diversity of freshwater catfish species of the Krishna River, Sangli District was studied from June 2009 to July 2012. The study area covered 105km from Karad City where the Koyna tributary joins the Krishna River up to Mhaishal, the state border of Maharashtra. It was divided into three streams for convenience, i.e., the upper stream starts from Karad and goes up to Takari, the middle stream from Takari to Bhilawadi and downstream from Bhilawadi to Mhaishal. A total of 13 species of catfish belonging to five families and 10 genera were recorded. The Bagridae family was dominant with six species, whereas Siluridae, Schilbidae and Clariidae had two species each and Sisoridae with one species. We have provided range extension for an endemic and threatened sisorid catfish Glyptothorax poonaensis. The occurrence and distribution of catfishes was more or less equal in number along the study area. The maximum number of species recorded was nine from the upper stream, whereas the middle and down streams had eight and seven species respectively. The distribution of catfish along the Krishna River system may be due to the slow and steady state water movement and its width that ensure the continuous availability of nutrition. It is suggested that the Krishna River would be a suitable habitat for the conservation of freshwater catfish if the threats are minimized.

1 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

001113   Kailash Chandra;Kushwaha S;Sambath S (Zoological Survey of India, , `M' Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053, Email: sandeepkushwaha_17@yahoo.com) : True bugs (Hemiptera) from Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary, Narsinghpur, Madhya Pradesh. Bionotes 2014, 16(3), 93-4.

2 tables, 9 ref

001112   Dudani S N;Mahesh M K;Chandran M D S; Ramachandra T V (Energy and Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru-560 012, Email: sumesh@ces.iisc.ernet.in) : Cyathea nilgirensis holttum (Cyatheaceae:Pteridophyta): a thretened tree fern from central Western Ghats, India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(1), 5413-16.

While studying some of the exclusive and threatened swamps overgrown with wild nutmeg trees (Myristica swamps), in the Kathalekan forest of Uttara Kannada in central Western Ghats, Cyathea nilgirensis Holttum, a southern Indian endemic tree fern was seen - 17 - growing in the deep shade of the swampy forest. This is a new report of its distribution anywhere from north of Western Ghats.

18 ref

001111   Bindu L;Padmakumar K G (Kerala Agricultural University, Regional Agricultural Research Station, , Kumarakom, Kerala 686 566, Email: bindukylm@gmail.com) : Spawning and early development of the endemic and threatened Yellow Catfish Horabagrus brachysoma (Gnther, 1864) (Teleostei: Bagridae). J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(1), 5368-74.

Study documents the embryonic and post embryonic development of the endemic and threatened bagrid catfish Horabagrus brachysoma under captive conditions. Ovaprimr induced fishes spawned after a latency period of 11.61±1.53 hr with 95.57±3.101 % fertilization and 68.6±30.96 % hatching rates. The fertilized eggs were non-adhesive and spherical with an average diameter of 1.61±0.05 mm. Hatching occurred in 24.9±1.75 hr after fertilization, producing larvae with a mean size of 3.94±0.112 mm. Mouth and barbels were prominent in two day old larvae. Yolk absorption was completed and the larvae attained a size of 5.9±0.307 mm by four day post hatch. The larvae accepted exogenous particulate feed from the fifth day onwards. The characteristic black humeral ocellus appeared in one week old larvae. The larvae achieved 58-65 mm in 85 days.

3 tables, 38 ref

000030   Ravindra P N (Biology Dep, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune-411 008, Email: rvndrpn@gmail.com) : Ant runners: an analysis of running speed of Leptogenys processionalis (hymenoptera: formicidae: poneriane). Curr Sci 2014, 106(9), 1187-9.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

000029   Gupta S;Sinha A (National Institute of Advanced Studies, Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bangalore-560 012, Email: shreejata@gmail.com) : Wild boar hunting: predation on a bonnet macaque by a wild boar in the Bandipur national park, southern India. Curr Sci 2014, 106(9), 1186-7.

1 illus, 11 ref

000028   Devi M H;Salam J S;Joylani S D;Singh P K; Choudhury M D (Life Science Dep, Assam Univ, Silchar, Assam, Email: haripriyamaibam@gmail.com) : Biochemical study of ten selected fodder plants of critically endangered sangai (Rucervus eldii eldii Mc clelland). Envir Ecol 2013, 31(2), 573-81.

Rucervus eldii eldii, found only in Kei-bul Lamjao National Park (KLNP), one of the Ramsar sites in Manipur is a critically endanger animal. As a step towards the conservation of this rare animal, plants eaten by the animal were identified and their mineral composition and nutritive indices studied; 25 plants were identified as the fodder plants of Sangai. Different amount of biochemical compounds and minerals were recorded among the plants. Total soluble sugar reducing sugar and non-reducing sugar ranged from 18.4 to 105 mg/g, 11.27-18.55 mg/g, 2.38- 90.73 mg/g, while ascorbic acid, total amino acid and total soluble protein ranged 0.5-0.85 mg/g, 21.9-39.7 mg/g and 11-102 mg/g. A. nigra contains significantly - 9 - higher values of total sugar (105.5 mg/g) and non-reducing sugar (90.73 mg/g) than the rest of the plants. Higher amounts of ascorbic acid were recorded in Z. caduciflora (1.5 mg/g) and Ph. karka (1.2 mg/g). A wide variation of protein content was observed among the plants. Higher amount of protein was observed in H. coronarium (120 mg/g), P. sagittata (102 mg/g), P. sphaerocarpon (101 mg/g) and B. mutica (99.2 mg/g). Higher contents of flavonoid (22.9 mg/g) was also recorded in B. mutica while higher content of tannin was recorded in P. sagittata (7.4 mg/g). No significant differences were observed in case of reducing sugar and total free amino acids. Wide variations in mineral elements were observed. Higher amounts of Ca (4 mg/g) and K (26 mg/g) were recorded in H. coronarium while that of P (3.7 mg/g) and S (2 mg/g) in B. mutica. No significant differences were observed in case of Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu among the plants studied. Co was not detected in majority of the plants. However, Ph. karka and C. seligera recorded 0.02 and 0.01 mg/g of Co. The present study may provide information on dietary values of the plants eaten by Sangai thereby helping the personnel directly involved with the animal in particular and the state in general towards better and healthy conservation of the animal.

2 illus, 6 tables, 20 ref

024276   Sridevu P C;Prasad R V;Narayana Bhat M; Jayashankar M R;Ramkrishna V (NO, Institute of Wildlife Veterinary Research, Kodagu-571 232, Email: rvprashwin@gmail.com) : Histological studies on antler of spotted deer (Axis axis) and horns of black buck (Anteplope cervicapra) with that of horns of domestic cattle. J Cell Tissue Res 2014, 14(1), 4131-6.

Study was conducted on antlers of spotted deer and on horns of black buck and cattle with the objective of differentiating them from each other. In the horizontal ground section of antler four distinct zones were observed namely subvelvet zone, zone of osteonic bone, transition zone and spongiosa zone from periphery to the center of the antler. Similar type of zonation was also observed at the tip of the tine of antler. Such zonations were not observed either in the transverse ground section of burr and pedicle of the antler, as well as in Cattle and Black buck horn core. The transverse section of the soft tissue located between the horn sheath and horn core of cattle showed stratified squamous epithelium towards horn sheath. Underlying this epithelial layer was a thin layer of highly vascularised loosely arranged dermis composed of irregularly oriented collagen fibres.

10 illus, 10 ref

024275   Revathy V S;Mathew G (Entomology Dep, Forest Health Div, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Kerala, Email: revathybiju143@gmail.com) : Seasonal flactuations of butterfly population: a study in butterfly garden at Peechi, Kerala, India. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2014, 7(1), 29-35.

Seasonal abundance and diversity of butterfly population in the Butterfly Garden of KFRI at Peechi was examined. A total of 11,104 individuals belonging to 50 butterfly species from five families and 37 genera were recorded. Nymphalidae was the most dominant family with 21 species followed by Papilionidae (11 species), Lycaenidae (7 species), Hesperiidae (6 species) and Pieridae (5 species). By pooling the generated data, the overall butterfly population showing an increasing trend from January to December with many butterfly population had an average sightings in January, minimum in April and maximum in November. Data generated in this study shows that butterflies requires appropriate climatic conditions and they respond quickly to even subtle changes in temperature and humidity. It has been observed that the pupal period of certain Papilionids may be extended from the normal days in November and December months. The lifecycle of butterflies is directly depends on temperature and humidity. A steady increase in the butterfly population count among - 5 - all families shows the importance of such gardens in attracting and sustaining the butterfly population. Butterfly gardens help in caring wild butterfly population and to maintain the biodiversity in natural ecosystems, which in turn, may increase the existence of human beings.

3 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

024274   Anil Kumar (NO, High Altitude Regional Centre, Zoological Survey of India, Solan-173 211, Email: anilsonta@gmail.com) : Avifauna of Pakke Tiger Reserve and adjacent localities, Arunachal Pradesh, India. J expl Zool 2014, 17(1), 55-67.

Pakke Tiger Reserve is one of the two Tiger Reserves of the state Arunachal Pradesh, North-East India, and known for its dense vegetation and highly diverse faunal wealth. Total 282 species have been recorded so far in the area, based on present survey and previously published studies. Total 141 species were recorded in present study including some interesting and/or new records for the area such as Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis, Banded Bay Cuckoo Cacomantis sonneratii, Rose- ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri, Jungle Owlet Glaucidium radiatum, Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides, Striated Babbler Turdoides earlei and Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus.

3 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

022211   Sambath S;Talmale S S;Limje M E (Zoological Survey of India, Central Zone Regional Centre, 168-169, Scheme No.5, Vijay Nagar, Jabalpur-482 002) : Checklist of the birds of Ghatigaon Wildlife Sanctuary, dist. Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. Bionotes 2014, 16(2), 52-6.

1 table, 27 ref

021171   Mehtat D;Soni V C;Sankar K (Wildlife Biology and Biodiversity Laboratory, Biosciences Dep, Saurashtra University, Rajkot-360 005, Email: sankark@wii.gov.in) : Food habits of Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) as determined by Pellet Analysis in a human dominated landscape, Western Gujarat, India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2013, 7(1), 7-13.

Examined the food habits of the Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) from May 2012 to September 2013 in a human dominated central Saurashtra landscape using microhistological technique of pellet samples. A total of 112 pellet samples were collected over three seasons- summer, monsoon and winter and analyzed for percent frequency of occurrence of different plant species. Contribution to the diet by monocots and dicots showed seasonal differences (ANOVA, F= 6.45, df=15, p=0.0l1) and the Nilgai was found to be a mix feeder through all the seasons in the study area.

3 illus, 4 tables, 35 ref

020093   Varma S;Vinay L (Asian Elephant Research and Conservation, Innovation Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: varma@ces.iisc.ernet.in) : Status of human-elephant conflict in Mysore forest division. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2013, 6(3), 106-17.

Increases in the extent and intensity of conflict may be indications of the increasing pressure on the already strained relationship between humans and elephants. This assessment of conflict status from 23 villages fall within a mean distance of 2.5 (ranging from 0 to 7) km from forest and 1.2 (ranging from 1 to 2) km from water bodies, was based on measuring conflict intensity and monitoring them during peak conflict season (in September 2009 to March 2010) for elephant visits and the resultant conflict. The results show, about 48% of the villages come under intense and high conflict zones, 33% under medium and 18% under low to minimal conflict zones. A total of 155 incidents of crop damage were measured and the extent of damage to crops by elephants per visit varied from 6 to 1000 m2, with a mean of 115 m². Elephant group sizes ranging from 1 individual to 20 were reported visiting crops and group size of 6 to 10 dominated followed by the group size of 1 to 5. Conflict is reported in the villages during October, November, December, January and February. Conflict of elephant with human beings in study region may not be linked to elephants using the habitat as part of their corridor, but due to their attraction towards crop and this may create negative conservation interest on elephants among local community.

11 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

020092   Vanitha V;Thiyagesan K;Baskaran N (NO, D.G. Government Arts College (Women), Mayiladuthurai-609 001, Email: vanithabaskar@rediffmail.com) : Population demography and viability of captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) in the timber camps of Tamil Nadu, Southern India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2012, 6(2), 82-90.

Demographic analysis on population size, structure, inter-calving interval, age-specific mortality, and fecundity of elephants managed for 10 years (1996-2005) by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, southern India, was carried out to understand the long-term viability of this population. Fifty elephants were managed under this captive regime during 2005, of which more than 70% were adults, indicating an aged population. Males (66%) outnumbered females (34%) with a skewed male-to-female sex ratio of 1: 0.5. Out of 34% females in the population, most individuals (25%) were adults (mostly above 40 years) and only a negligible portion (9%) of the females were sub-adults, juveniles and calves. The unequal age structure and sex ratio are largely attributable to selective disposal of juvenile and sub-adult females to Hindu temples by the timber camps in the past. The absence of captive-born females in breeding condition, except for the one that last bred in 1943 in a century-old timber camp population, with good breeding history, supports the above reasoning. The present fecundity rate (0.065) is considerably lower than that reported earlier for the same population (0.155). A population projection model developed based on the current demographic parameters predicts a negative growth rate in less than 20 years, with the number of individuals poised to decrease to approximately 10 individuals in about 100 years. If the long history of timber camp elephants is to be maintained, inputs from the wild in the form of young adult and sub-adult females will be required. Capturing and transferring of problem elephants, especially herds ranging in isolated habitats to timber camps could be considered as a solution for restructuring the captive population as well as for reducing human-elephant conflict in natural habitats.

5 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

020091   Ramakrishnan B;Ramkumar K;Kumaraguru A; Saravanamuthu R;Ashok Upreti (Zoology & Wildlife Biology Dep, Government Arts College, Udhagamandalam, The Nilgiris-643 002, Email: bio.bramki@gmail.com) : Impact of exotic weeds proliferation on the distribution of tiger (Panthera tigris) and its prey species in the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu, South India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2013, 6(3), 125-34.

The tiger (Panthera tigris), a "Flagship Species" in the forest ecosystem, faces several perils in all its ranges. Apart from poaching, habitat loss is also a reason for the declining of tigers. This study was undertaken during the period of November 2002 to April 2003 to understand the effect of exotic weed invasion in the tiger habitats in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, South India. We estimated the extent of the influence of different ecological variables on the prey species of tiger and to ascertain the extent of usage pattern of tiger in Severe Weed Infested Areas (SWIA), Moderate (MWIA) and Less Weed Infested Areas (LWIA). Line transect method was applied on roads which were bisecting in these three sampling areas, and assessments were made by walking along the roads in the morning (0700 hrs-1100 hrs) and evening (1500 hrs-1830 hrs). Among the prey species, the relative density of Chital was high (38.77%) in LWIA. On the contrary, high density of Sambar was recorded in SWIA (8.34%). The mean group size of chital (Axis axis), Sambar (Cervus unicolor) and Common langur (Prespytes johini) did not significantly differ between weed-infested areas. The maximum individuals in the group of Chital (50.3-93.6 sqkm) and Sambar (9.6-17.6 sqkm) were found in LWIA. The adult male and female sex ratio of Chital was 1:0.7,1:2.4 and 1:3.3 in MWIA, LWIA and SWIA, respectively. In the case of Sambar, the adult male and female sex ratios were 1:1.5, 1:1.7 arid 1:3.1 in SWIA, MWIA and LWIA, respectively. The biomass density of major prey species of tiger such as Chital, Sambar, Wild Boar and Common Langur were available more in LWIA than other weed infested areas of this study. Apart from two direct sightings of tigers more indirect evidences such as pug marks (n=35), scats (n=12) and scrape and scent markings (n=5) were frequently encountered in the order of LWIA <60> MWIA <60> SWIA. In conclusion, since the prey population is more in LWIA the tiger population also more in this area. Even though the forest cover is more(321 sqkm), the exotic weed infestation reduces the home range of the prey populations depending upon the habitat suitability and this could be one of the indirect possible reasons for decline in tiger population in this Mudumalai Tiger Reserve.

3 illus, 5 tables, 31 ref

020090   Devi Prasad A G;Shwetha (Studies in Environmental Science Dep, Mysore Univ, Mysore-570 006, Email: envimys2009@yahoo.com) : Assessment of tree population and species composition in three forest types of Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka, India. J envir Biol 2014, 35(1), 289-94.

Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary in Chamarajnagar District of Karnataka State is home for semi-nomadic Soliga Tribe. The species composition and population structure were investigated in three (Shola, Dry deciduous and Moist deciduous) forest types to assess the changes in species composition among them. Random single-scale sampling was adopted with a plot of 2m x 2m for regenerated tree species having GBH ≤ 30 cm nested with quadrat of 20mx20m for tree species having GBH ≥ 30cm. A total of 30 species in dry deciduous forest, 36 species in moist deciduous forest and 33 species in shola forest were recorded. The highest diversity in regenerated species was observed in moist deciduous populations followed by shola and dry deciduous forests. The regeneration of NTFP species in moist deciduous forest was found to be high (22 species) and very low in dry deciduous forest (10 species). These types of forests were found to be impacted by disturbance such as canopy opening, weed, grazing fire and lopping. The study is useful to plan conservation strategies for these resources.

4 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

020089   Chelliah A (NO, , Indo American Wildlife Society, <35> 387/24, Krishnan Complex, Panner Nagar, Mugappair West, Chennai-600 058, Email: ari.wildlife@gmail.com) : Impact of tourism on elephant corridor in Nilgiris, Western Ghats. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2012, 6(2), 67-73.

The impacts of tourism activity on the Singara elephant corridor, Nilgiris, Western Ghats were studied from October 2007 to January 2008. Data were collected on elephant usage, vehicular movement, road kill by vehicle traffic in the corridor. The study results showed that the density of elephant was 0.43 elephant/km² during the study period, indicated that the high numbers of elephants are using this corridor. The issue of concern that I talk about in this paper is that the unauthorized tourism activity was observed in the corridor area, which may affect the elephant migration between Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats. Based on the observation I found that there are two important location for elephants to cross one is the Singara road which is known as a Singara elephant corridor another one is Bokkapuram road which is contiguous habitat of this corridor. The movement of elephants in this corridor has to come through the Bokkapuram road and reaches the eastern side of the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Due to high number of tourist resort and hotel located in Bokkapuram village made this road for heavy vehicular traffic which affect movement of wild animals. Result of the vehicular movement shows that the average of 58 and 132 vehicles recorded per day in Singara and Bokkapuram road respectively. In both the area more than 52% of vehicle used for tourism purpose; remaining 48% were local people usage. Current tourism activities and infrastructure around the area, is impinging on elephant corridor and threaten to irretrievably block crucial links and isolate elephant populations from Western Ghats to Eastern Ghats. Thus, recommendation was made to conserve the corridor.

2 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

020088   Aarif K M;Prasadan P K (Zoology and Research Centre Dep, Mary Matha Arts and Science College, Mananthavady, Wayanad-670 645, Email: achuarif@gmail.com) : Injured migratory shorebirds and gulls in the Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu community reserve. J envir Biol 2014, 35(1), 243-6.

During the study on the foraging ecology of the migratory shore birds of Kadalundi, several injured birds were observed. Detailed investigation revealed that out of 28 species of migratory birds recorded from the area under study, 16 individual shorebirds belonging to six species were found injured. All injured species belonged to distant migrant category. One Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) was observed throughout the period of study. Lesser Sand Plover (Charadrius mongolous), Black-headed Gull (Larus ridibundus), Little Stint (Calidris minuta), Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) and Common Redshank (Tringa totanus) were other species of injured birds observed. Direct observation method was followed for the study during 2005 to 2012. The Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu Community Reserve is one of the most important wintering ground and stop-over for migratory shorebirds in the West Coast of India. Anthropogenic activities may be the major reasons attributable to the bird injury.

2 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

019042   Lorica M R P;Heaney L R (Conservation Biology Program, Minnesota Univ, 200 Hodson Hall, 1980 Folwell Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108, USA, Email: loric001@umn.edu) : Survival of a native mammalian carnivore, the leopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis Kerr, 1792 (Carnivora: Felidae), in an agricultural landscape on an oceanic Philippine Island. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(10), 4451-60.

Concerns about vulnerability of mammalian carnivores to extinction, especially on small islands, appear to conflict with prior reports of endemic populations of leopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis (Kerr, 1792) surviving in agricultural landscapes on oceanic islands. We investigated the persistence of the Visayan leopard cat (P. b. rabori) in the sugarcane fields on Negros, an oceanic island in central Philippines. A population remained throughout the year at our study site on a sugarcane farm, and reproduction was noted. Non-native rodents form the bulk of the cat's diet, followed by reptiles, birds, amphibians, and insects. Prey species identified from the samples commonly occur in agricultural areas in the Philippines. Prey composition did not vary significantly with respect to wet and dry season, or sugarcane harvest cycle. This study provides evidence that an intensively managed agricultural landscape on this oceanic island supports a native obligate carnivore that subsists primarily on exotic rats. This study supports a prior prediction that leopard cats will show flexibility in prey selection on islands with few or no native small mammal prey species, but in this case they do so not by switching to other vertebrates and invertebrates, but rather to exotic pest species of rodents.

1 illus, 5 tables, 54 ref

017962   Siliwal M;Gupta N;Molur S (NO, Wildlife Information Liaison Development Society, 96, Kumudham Nagar, Vilankuruchi Road, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu-641 035, Email: neha_11taurian@rediffmail.com) : Striated parachute spider Poecilotheria striata pocock, 1895 (araneae: theraphosidae): a note on taxonomy, distribution and conservation status. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(12), 4630-40.

Known distribution range of Poecilotheria striata Pocock, 1895 in India is from Mysuru in the north to Thiruvananthapuram in the south. During the recent surveys in northern Karnataka, P. striata was recorded from six locations in Dandeli and nearby areas in the Uttara Kannada District. With the new records from Uttara Kannada, the distribution range of this species extends to the northern part of the Western Ghats by ca. 400km from Mysuru. Additional records on distribution of P. striata are also provided from various surveys carried out in the last 10 years. Based on these new records, the IUCN Red List status of P. striata is recommended to be reassessed as Near Threatened. Additional information on the morphology and natural history of P. striata is provided in the paper.

10 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

017961   Khan M S;Aftab;Syed Z;Nawab A;Ilyas O;Khan A (Freshwater & Wetlands Programme, World Wide Fund for Nature-India, 172 B Lodi Estate, New Delh-110 003, Email: shahnawaz.khan.aligarh@gmail.com) : Composition and conservation status of avian species at Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh, India. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(12), 4714-21.

3 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

017960   Chandra K;Gupta D (NO, Zoological Survey of India, 535, M-Block, New Alipore, West Bengal-700 053, Email: kailash611@rediffmail.com) : Scarab beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea) of Barnawapara Widlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh, India. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(12), 4660-71.

Faunistic survey in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh revealed 43 species belonging to 25 genera, 16 tribes and eight subfamilies in two families, Hybosoridae and Scarabaeidae of the superfamily Scarabaeoidea. All the species are recorded for the first time from the Sanctuary, while 31 species are new to the scarab fauna of Chhattisgarh, India.

1 illus, 40 ref

017959   Abhisheka K;Patrick David J;Prashanth M B; Seshadri K S;Ganesh T (NO, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, Royal Enclave, Srirampura, Jakkur Post, Bengaluru, Karnataka-560 064, Email: abhishekagopal@gmail.com) : First detailed survey of waterbirds in Tirunelveli and Tuticorin districts, Tamil Nadu, India. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(12), 4641-52.

Semi-arid districts of Tirunelveli and Tuticorin in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu consist of numerous wetlands in the form of irrigation tanks, interconnected by an ancient network of canals, and fed by the rivers originating from the Western Ghats. While these irrigation tanks have socio-economic and cultural significance, very little is known of their ecological importance. These tanks have the potential to harbor good populations of resident and wintering waterbirds but no studies have been done to confirm this. A survey was carried out in 230 irrigation tanks of various sizes in the two districts from November 2008 to January 2011. A total of 83 waterbird species were recorded. Indian Pond Heron Ardeola grayii occurred in most of the surveyed tanks. Large concentrations of wintering waterfowl such as Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope, Northern Pintail Anas acuta, Garganey Anas querquedula were recorded in tanks closer to the coast. Based on our survey, six sites with large waterbird concentrations have been identified, one of which is Vagaikulam, an active heronry currently under threat from tree felling. These sites along with associated wetlands are important for the long term conservation of waterbirds in the region.

1 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

016973   Shukla G;Ritesh Kumar;Chakravarty S (NO, ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Research Centre, Plandu, Ranchi-834 010, Email: gopalshukla12@gmail.com) : When flowering threatens the natural conservation of a species. Curr Sci 2012, 102(11), 1502.

^ssc1 illus, 8 ref

015851   Singh L A K (NO, , 1830-Mahatab Road, Friend's Colony, Old Town, Bhubaneswar-751 002, Email: laksinghindia@gmail.com) : Supplement to khan 2012- technological enhancements needed in photo-trap approach for forthright use by tiger population managers. J Threatened Taxa 2012, 4(4), 2551-2.

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015850   Bhupathy S;Srinivas G;Sathishkumar N; Murugesan M;Babu S;Suganthasakthivel R;Sivakumar P (NO, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Anaikatty (PO), Coimbatore-641 108, Email: bhupathy.s@gmail.com) : Diversity and conservation of selected biota of the Megamalai landscape, Western Ghats, India. Curr Sci 2012, 102(4), 590-5.

Data on the diversity of selected faunal groups of Megamalai landscape, southern Western Ghats, India, based on a field study from March 2006 to January 2009 and published information were collated and analysed. Greater species richness of tree species (157 species), amphibians (34), reptiles (87), birds (211) and mammals (62) and endemicity in the area appear to be due to the availability of various vegetation types and greater elevational gradient (200-1800 m msl). High proportion of endemic species with respect to sampled taxa was observed in wet zones (<62> 800 m). Annexing area with various vegetation types and elevation gradients to the recently declared Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is critical for biodiversity conservation in the region.

2 illus, 5 tables, 49 ref

014893   Wijeyamohan S;Sivakumar V;Read B;Schmitt D; Krishnakumar S;Santiapillai C (Physics Dep, Postgraduate Institute of Science, Peradeniya Univ, Sri Lanka) : A simple technique to estimate linear body measurements of elephants. Curr Sci 2012, 102(1), 26-28.

^ssc2 illus, 20 ref

014892   Ramakrishnan B;Ramasubramanian S;Samson A (Zoology and Wildlife Biology Dep, Government Arts College, Stone House Hill Post, Udhagamandalam, The Nilgiris-643 002, Email: bio.bramki@gmail.com) : Occurrence of red-headed vulture in Segur plateau, Tamil Nadu. Curr Sci 2012, 102(6), 832.

^ssc1 illus, 6 ref

014891   Murali Krishna C;Ray P C;Sarma K;Awadhesh Kumar (Wildlife Resource and Conservation Lab, Forestry Dep, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli-791 109, Email: tpileatus@gmail.com) : Conservation of white-bellied heron Ardea insignis (Hume, 1878) habitat in Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh, India. Curr Sci 2012, 102(8), 1092-3.

1 illus, 3 ref

014890   Gubbi S;Poornesha H C;Madhusudan M D (NO, Wildlife Conservation Society-India Program and Centre for Wildlife S, 1669, 31st Cross, 16th Main, Banashankari 2nd Stage, Bangalore-560 070, Email: sanjaygubbi@gmail.com) : Impact of vehicular traffic on the use of highway edges by large mammals in a south Indian wildlife reserve. Curr Sci 2012, 102(7), 1047-51.

India phenomenal economic growth over the last decade has been accompanied by a much-needed expansion and improvement in transport and other infrastructure networks. While there are legally mandated assessments of the potential ecological impacts of such infrastructure projects prior to implementation, rarely are there post-implementation assessments of their real ecological impacts. In this communication, authors present results of a preliminary study examining the impact of vehicular traffic on the usage of road edges by large mammals along a highway passing through Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, southern India. Authors estimated large mammal encounter rates at remotely triggered camera traps on two consecutive sections of the same highway - one closed to vehicular traffic and the other open to vehicles only during daytime. Observed lower encounter rates of chital, gaur and elephants at camera traps in the highway segment with higher vehicular traffic density, suggesting that these species avoided busy highways. Based on the findings, emphasize the importance of continued ecological impact assessments of development projects to identify and mitigate unforeseen impacts. Further, an approach to development planning that integrates conservation concerns, especially where de-velopment projects coincide with ecologically critical areas, is urgently needed in India.

2 illus, 24 ref

014889   Asok V S;Sobha V (P.G. Environmental Sciences Dep, All Saints College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Email: smithaasok@gmail.com) : Landscape level floral biodiversity characterisation and estimation in Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary using remote sensing and GIS techniques. Asian J envir Sci 2013, 8(2), 98-100.

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, part of Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is one of the richest areas of biodiversity in the Western Ghats, the biotic richness and distinct biographic features making it an ideal gene pool reserve. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary has substantial natural vegetation ranging from the southern secondary moist mixed deciduous forest to southern subtropical hill forest. Remote sensing, with its advantage of spatial, spectral and temporal availability of data covering large and inaccessible area within short time has made it a very rapid and cost effective tool in assessing, monitoring and conserving our natural resources. With an aim of assessing the floral biodiversity of the sanctuary at the landscape (vegetation class) level, remote sensing based supervised classification technique was carried out on IRS P6 LISS III digital imagery. Quantification of each vegetation class was then carried out on the classified image using the tool of GIS which was substantiated with extensive ground survey. The results indicated that more than 40% of the vegetation in Shendurney Wildlife sanctuary falls under the semi-evergreen category followed by evergreen vegetation which comes to 30% of the total area. Other classes identified include reed brake (3.37%), grass land (3.30%) and water-bodies (10.22%). A fraction of 0.1% and 2.3% of the area depicted cloud cover and shadow regions in the imagery, respectively. A Kappa analysis was also performed to estimate the thematic accuracy of the classified image, using the Kappa co-efficient, which is a measure of agreement between classification and verification.

3 illus, 2 tables, 3 ref

013721   Singh V;Banyal H S (Biosciences Dep, Himachal Pradesh Univ, Shimla) : Diversity and ecology of mammals in Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary, district Chamba (Himachal Pradesh), India. Int J Sci Nat 2012, 3(1), 125-8.

During the present investigation a detailed taxonomic and ecological study was conducted in Kalatop-Khajjiar Wildlife sanctuary of Chamba District also known as the Mini Switzerland of Himachal Pradesh. Study revealed the presence of 16 species of mammals belonging to 14 genera, 12 families and 6 orders. Out of a total of sixteen species thirteen have been placed under Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972. Two species are vulnerable according to National Red Data.

18 ref

013720   Mamo D;Gangwar S K;Bouer H;Tesfay Y (Animal Science Dep, College of Agriculture, Aksum Univ, Aksum, Ethiopia) : Demography, threats and community perception of African elephants (Loxodanta africana) in Kafta-Sheraro National Park, Tigray, Ethiopia. Int J Sci Nat 2012, 3(1), 30-6.

Study was conducted in Kafta-Sheraro Wereda in Northwest Tigray region of Ethiopia to assess community perception about the African elephants, major threats and demography of African elephants. A total of 240 households were selected from 12 villages using a stratified random sampling. Samples represented six of the villages closer (on average 7.2 km) to the park and the other 6 villages represented samples far (average 39 km) from the park. Demography (Sex and Age) of African elephants was determined through direct observations based on the general appearances of elephants. Individual villages, Land holding, and proximity of the villages to the park were the primary factors significantly (P <60> 0.05) influencing elephant management and conservation in the area. The view of respondents on management problems differed between the sampled villages. The main management problem ranked first by the respondents nearby and far villages were poor patrolling (index=0.26) followed by poor community awareness (0.23=index) closer villages, weak law enforcement (index=0.20) for poor conservation of elephant population in the area. A large proportion of the respondents proximity to the park (index=0.41) identified habitat destruction as major threat followed by illegal hunting (index=0.28), livestock interference (index=0.19), and feed shortage (index=0.13).

25 ref

009559   Zubair M;Shukkur E A A;Azeez P A;Jayson E A (Zoology Dep, Calicut Univ, Kerala) : Food management of three species of falcons in captivity. Sci Soc 2012, 10(1), 37-44.

Falcons are carnivorous, migratory birds with wide distribution all over the temperate and tropical regions of the world. Food management and feeding behaviour of Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), Saker falcon (Falco cherrug) and Gyr falcon (Falco rusticolus) were studied in United Arab Emirates. In captivity falcons fed with quail, pigeon, lamb meat, beef and ducks. Females apparently consume more food than males as indicated by their body size. The food intake of male and female nestlings is same till 21 days after hatching. The falcons are sensitive to stored food during their breeding. When falcons take the boneless food regularly casting does not occur properly. To avoid such complications both boned and boneless food needs to be supplied routinely in a mixed manner. Fasting once in a fortnight facilitate proper casting. Ammonium chloride, used for cleaning falcon's stomach, kills them when given excessively. Consumption of only live specimens may cause infectious and parasitic diseases. Feeding on stored food alone also is not advisable. A food regime with frozen and live food in a mixed manner is recommended for their proper health.

4 tables, 13 ref

008412   Vachanth M C;Karthi N;Sridharan G (P.G. and Research Zoology Dep, Rajah Serfoji Government College, Thanjuvar-613 005, Email: chanth27@gmail.com) : Overview of waterbirds in Karaivetty lake, Tamil Nadu, Southern India. J Ecobiol 2012, 30(1-2), 75-80.

The birds of Karaivetty Lake (Wetland), Tamil Nadu, Southern India were surveyed between August 2008 and March 2009. Totally 50 birds species were recorded and belonged to 8 orders including 2 species of Podicipediformes, 4 Pelecaniformes, 14 Ciconiiformes, 9 Anseriformes, 5 Gruiformes, 10 Charadriiformes, 3 Coraciiformes and 3 species of Passeriformes. The birds belonged to diversified ecological groups as there were 6 divers, 10 swimming birds, 15 small waders, 14 large waders and 5 aerial foragers. The microhabitats within the lake and agricultural areas surrounding the lake attract this much of diversied birds. Management recommendations include reduction of tourism, prevention of spread of developmental activities, afforestration and creation of public awareness considering the ecological significance of wetlands.

1 table, 7 ref

007292   Shrivastava N K (NO, , Behind Railway Station Ward No. 12, Vikatgang Umaria, Dist. Umaria-484 661) : Rare plants of Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh) India. Indian J appl pure Biol 2012, 27(2), 203-5.

Deals with rare plants of Bandhavharh National Park (M.P.). The park has a rich source of medicinal plants and is inhabited by a large population of tribals who make use of various parts of plants for health care and other purposes, as a consequence many species of plants have disappeared in the Bandhavgarh National Park, and a number of them are on the verge of extinction.

9 ref

007291   Sheikh K A;Telang S;Bhat S A;Wani M A (NO, , Chakoora District, Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir-192 305, Email: sheikkhurshid@gmail.com) : Food habits of Chital (Axis axis axis) in Van Vihar National Park, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Central India. Indian J appl pure Biol 2012, 27(2), 147-54.

Between June 2010 and June 2011, the food habits of chital (Axis axis axis) were studied in Van Vihar National park, Bhopal. Chital in total fed on 98 plant species. Contribution of various plant types (grasses, herbs, fallen leaves, flowers and fruits) to the diet of chital varied from season to season. Among all the plant types, grasses had the highest preference and among all the plant species. Tridax procumbens had the highest preference with preference rating of 21.4.

1 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref