Status distribution and factors affecting the habitat selection by Sambar Deer Rusa unicolor in Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Sambar Rusa unicolor is one of the deer species distributed throughout the Indian subcontinent. The species has been listed as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List since 2008, and Schedule I Part A of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Populations have declined throughout its distribution range. This study aims to investigate the status, distribution, and habitat selection of Sambar in Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India. Fifteen line transects of 2-km length were laid in five different habitats. Data were collected during the winter and summer seasons during 2013 and 2015. Transects were traversed morning and evening and eight replicates were made on each transect, for a total of 1,232 km survey effort. The overall density of Sambar was 3.7 individuals per km2, and the group density 1.4 groups per km2. During the summer 113 individual Sambar were observed, and in winter only 80 individuals were observed. Male:female sex ratio was calculated as 100:59 in winter, and 100:56 in summer. Indirect evidence was also collected to supplement the direct sightings for analysis of habitat use. Ten-meter circular plots were laid on all 15 transects at an interval of 200 m between two plots. Principal component analysis and logistic regression were performed to understand the habitat use of this species during summer, post-monsoon, and winter seasons using pellet groups. The logistic regression model showed an efficiency of 97% correct classification during post-monsoon, 67% in winter, and 66% in summer.