Informatics Publishing Limited

G. Harikumar , O. P. Kaler , Sherly Joseph , K. J. Peeyuskutty , V. J. Zacharias

Abstract

The Great Indian Hornbill is now an endangered species although in Protected Areas it is fairly common. Systematic studies have not been conducted through stray notes are available. A status survey was conducted in Periyar Tiger Reserve. It has shown its wide distribution in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests where it is found singly or in groups. It prefers old growth forest patches. Nesting take place from February to May which is related to fruiting season are figs. Nesting is done on tall old trees. Young ones are fed on figs and occasionally Lizards and even Snakes. Entrances are vertical to circular, the height of nests being 8 to 25 m from the ground. Photography is posing a management problem and in some cases the birds did not return to the nest which they generally did when they were not disturbed.

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G. Harikumar , Bennichan Thomas , K. J. Joseph , V. J. Zacharias

Abstract

Sambar in Periyar enjoys a wide distribution in the Reserve. It is the major prey species of Tiger and Wild Dogs here. Sambar was seen singly and in groups of up to about 60 individuals. They eat a variety of grasses, herbs, shrubs and leaves and fruits of various trees. The Sambar in Periyar prefers grasslands, but usually avoids evergreen forests. They spend considerable time foraging in moist deciduous forests and 'savannah' type vegetation. Density of population of the species in the reserve (excluding evergreen tract) is estimated to be 2.1/km They spent a lot of time for feeding, mostly in the mornings and evenings. Active feeding as well as 'fluid grouping' are mostly seen in open areas. This may be an anti.predator device. Male-female ratio among adult individuals was 1 : 3.86. Males are seen with females/herbs mostly during the reproductive season - December-January. Mating was observed only once occasion. In cases, which are clearly know, young ones are born in June/July months. Males with velvet are mostly found in December-February months, though it is also found throughout the year. Sambar in Periyar is threatened by several factors' disease, poaching, tourism and grazing by domestic livestock.

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