Saif Ullah
PMAS-Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Title: Population size and habitat association of Indian gazelle (Gazella bennettii) in Nizampur area, district Nowshehra, Pakistan
Biography
Biography: Saif Ullah
Abstract
The Indian gazelle (Gazella bennettii) also known as Chinkara, is a very adaptable wild animal. Present study determined the population size and habitat association of Indian gazelle in Manglot near Nizampur area of District Nowshera from September 2015 to July 2016. The data on population density was collected by direct counting using vantage point method and scanning from these vantage points. A total of 19 Indian gazelles were observed at four different study sites located between 328 m and 504m elevation in the study area. Of the total individuals observed, 21% were males, 37% were females, 32% were yearlings and 10% were young. Habitat analysis was done through vegetation survey using quadrate method in its habitat. Relative density, relative frequency, relative cover and importance value index were calculated for all plant species recorded in Indian gazelle habitat at four study sites. A total of 22 quadrates were taken between the elevation of 328m and 504m near selected vantage points. As many as 33 plant species belonging to 16 families were recorded in Indian gazelle habitat among which trees were 24.2%, shrubs 30.3%, herbs 18.2% and grasses 27.3%. Indian gazelle in the study area is facing problems due to increasing human population and also extension of agricultural practices in its potential habitat.