Ecology of the dhole (Cuon alpinus
Pallas) in Central India: An Update
- B. Bhaskar Acharya, Senior Research Fellow
Abstract
The project aims to collect information on dhole (Cuon alpinus) food habits, behaviour, social organisation, habitat use and ranging patterns, in Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh. The progress in fieldwork till date is being presented.
The diet of dholes is being assessed from their scats and kills. The systematic estimation of prey abundance using the Line Transect method was carried out on permanently marked transects (12 transects, total length 30 km), in the intensive study area (Karmajhiri Range, Pench National Park: 145 km2) from November 2001 to May 2002. Data regarding the encounter rates and group composition of prey species have also been recorded using vehicle-based road transects. Data on pack characteristics, behaviour, activity and movements of dholes, are being recorded whenever a pack is encountered.
In July 2002, one adult female dhole was captured, immobilized and radio-collared in the National Park. Subsequently, this individual and her pack's movement and activity patterns, and other ecological information are being recorded (pack of 12: 3 males, 2 females and 7 pups). Since mid-August 2002, this study pack has shifted range to the Pench Sanctuary, its surrounding Reserved Forests and non-forest areas, around 20 km from the site of radio-collaring.
It is planned to have a few more dholes radio-collared, preferably from independent packs.
| Project Title | : | Ecology of the Dhole (Cuon alpinus Pallas) in Central India. |
| PIs & Co-PIs | : | Dr. A.J.T. Johnsingh & Dr. K. Sankar |
| Researchers | : | B. Bhaskar Acharya, SRF |
| Funding Agency | : | WII Grant-in-aid |
| Date of Initiation & Completion | : | 10.01.2001 to 10.01.2004 |