Publications
Behaviour and habitat preferences of translocated rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) at Manas National Park, Assam, India
A study on translocated greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) at Manas National Park, Assam, India, found that these animals successfully adapted to their new environment without significant behavioral differences from wild populations. Between 2008 and 2021, 22 rhinos were reintroduced as part of the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 program, with post-release monitoring revealing stable activity patterns, home ranges, and habitat preferences. The park's slightly higher elevation reduced flood risks compared to source sites like Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. By 2022, the population had grown to 50 individuals, including 38 calves born post-reintroduction, demonstrating the effectiveness of well-managed translocation schemes in rhino conservation.
Towards a new rhino conservation landscape in Assam for the increasing population of the greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis)
A recent census in Assam reveals a significant increase in the population of greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis), with notable growth also observed in their habitat within protected areas like Kaziranga, Manas, and Orang National Parks. This upward trend is attributed to enhanced anti-poaching measures and improved vigilance, which have drastically reduced poaching incidents. Additionally, the study highlights the economic benefits for local communities living near these parks, as tourism-related activities such as motels, safari vehicles, and souvenir shops have flourished, providing employment opportunities. The increase in tourism has also boosted the livelihoods of residents in cities like Guwahati, Jorhat, and Tezpur. While the study acknowledges the positive developments, it cautions about the need for controlled tourism, particularly in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary during peak seasons.
A systematic expert‐based assessment of progress and priorities for conservation of the Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis
A systematic expert-based assessment reveals that while conservation efforts for the Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) have successfully reduced hunting threats, significant challenges remain in addressing predation by dogs and power line impacts. The study identifies priority threats across key sites, including Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaziranga National Park, and Stoung-Chikreang Bengal Florican Conservation Area (BFCA), where conservation achievements are notable but require scaling up. It proposes a framework for collaboration to tackle these threats, emphasizing the critical role of D'Ering Wildlife Sanctuary in India. By replicating good practices from high-performing sites, the study suggests that the extinction risk of the Bengal Florican can be mitigated if priority actions are implemented effectively.
A study on the behavior and colonization of translocated Greater One-horned Rhinos Rhinoceros unicornis (Mammalia: Perissodactyla: Rhinocerotidae) during 90 days from their release at Manas National Park, Assam India
A remarkable 89% of Greater One-horned Rhinos translocated from Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary to Manas National Park exhibited consistent dispersal patterns, moving in the same direction post-release. This study, part of India's Rhino Vision 2020 initiative, used radio tracking and direct observation over 90 days to document their behavioral adaptation and colonization behavior. Notably, rhinos from Pobitora showed greater straying compared to those from Kaziranga, suggesting site-specific influences on dispersal. The findings offer valuable insights for future rhino translocation strategies, aiming to enhance conservation efforts in Manas Wildlife Sanctuary.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Manas Wildlife Sanctuary