The Forest Department of Dhar district has initiated a major and detailed wildlife census, a crucial exercise that commenced on Monday from Mhow. This large-scale effort is designed to map the population and distribution of both herbivorous and carnivorous animals across the district's vast forest ranges.
Four-Phase Census with 200 Personnel
The extensive census operation is structured to be carried out in four distinct phases. A team of approximately 200 forest personnel and experts has been deployed for this task. Their objective is to meticulously survey a massive 100,000 hectares of forest area within Dhar district.
The methodology involves collecting both direct sightings and indirect evidence, such as pugmarks, scat, and scratch marks, to build a robust dataset. According to Dhar Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Vijayanand TR, the information gathered will be fundamental in shaping effective and informed conservation strategies for the future.
Special Focus on Leopard-Human Conflict Areas
A significant highlight of this year's census is its targeted approach. Special attention will be given to zones where leopards have been involved in incidents of livestock predation or have encountered conflicts with human settlements. This focused data collection aims to provide insights into leopard movement patterns and conflict hotspots, enabling better management and mitigation measures.
The census follows the established Phase-IV Tiger Monitoring protocol. For big cat enumeration, camera traps will be strategically placed. While tigers will be individually identified by their unique stripe patterns, leopards will be distinguished and counted based on their distinctive rosette or spot patterns. Photographs captured will be later matched to avoid double-counting and to ensure an accurate population estimate.
Botanical Survey Added to Ecological Study
In a new addition to the annual exercise, the forest department has expanded the census scope beyond fauna. This year, the operation will also include the enumeration of various plant species found within the forest. This holistic approach will offer a more comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem's health, biodiversity, and the interdependence between flora and fauna.
The culmination of this multi-phase census is expected to yield a critical snapshot of Dhar's wildlife. The data on animal densities, distribution, and plant diversity will serve as a vital tool for the forest department to:
- Formulate long-term wildlife conservation and protection plans.
- Develop specific strategies to reduce human-animal conflict, particularly involving leopards.
- Make informed decisions regarding habitat management and ecosystem restoration.
The successful completion of this census will strengthen the foundation for preserving Madhya Pradesh's rich natural heritage in the Dhar region.
