CHITWAN: A survey of tiger prey species has been completed in Chitwan and Parsa National Parks. The survey, which began on May 15, concluded recently.
According to Abinash Thapa Magar, information officer at Chitwan National Park, the prey-base survey was conducted following the completion of the national tiger census. Nine survey teams were mobilized for the exercise, with two elephants deployed over a period of 20 days. Three technical personnel were assigned to each elephant.
Thapa Magar said the survey covered approximately 400 transects established across the tiger census area, stretching from Triveni in Nawalparasi to Rautahat. Transects ranging from three to five kilometers were laid out in the Chure region and grassland habitats within the parks.
The survey involved direct observation of animals while riding elephants, with sightings recorded along the designated routes. Major prey species of tigers include four types of deer—sambar, spotted deer (chital), hog deer, and barking deer (ratuwa). Other prey species recorded during the survey included gaur, wild boar, nilgai, and monkeys.
Park officials said data analysis and further study have begun following the completion of the field survey.
Comment