Keywords
Line Transect Method
Block Count
Large Mammals.
How to Cite
Abstract
Population estimates of mammals provide considerable insights for conservation strategies, but only a few systematic population studies and annual census operations have given some direction to this effort. Even in these attempts, the methods adopted for estimating numbers vary substantially, and are usually not coupled with efforts to validate the results obtained, e.g., results of 1997 annual mammal census operation of Rajiv Gandhi National Park, southern India. The methods adopted for these operations were similar to each other. Hence, the census data of 1997 were reanalyzed using updated versions of data processing protocols. The overall results indicate that density estimates of all the species during the census using block counts were an underestimation, while line transect estimates were overestimates for several species. It is suggested that well-planned census operations, with focused training programmes and involvement of experts, may provide reasonably acceptable estimates.References
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