Journal of Ecosystem & Ecography
Open Access

Abstract

The Indian gazelle (Gazella bennettii) also known as Chinkara, is a very adaptable wild animal. Present study determined the population size and habitat association of Indian gazelle in Manglot near Nizampur area of District Nowshera from September 2015 to July 2016. The data on population density was collected by direct counting using vantage point method and scanning from these vantage points. A total of 19 Indian gazelles were observed at four different study sites located between 328 m and 504 m elevation in the study area. Of the total individuals observed, 21% were males, 37% were females, 32% were yearlings and 10% were young. Habitat analysis was done through vegetation survey using quadrate method in its habitat. Relative density, relative frequency, relative cover and importance value index were calculated for all plant species recorded in Indian gazelle habitat at four study sites. A total of 22 quadrates were taken between the elevation of 328 m and 504 m near selected vantage points. As many as 33 plant species belonging to 16 families were recorded in Indian gazelle habitat among which trees were 24.2%, shrubs 30.3%, herbs 18.2% and grasses 27.3%. Indian gazelle in the study area is facing problems due to increasing human population and also extension of agricultural practices in its potential habitat.

Biography

Saif Ullah has completed his MPhil from PMAS-Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan and BS (Hons) from University of Peshawar. He is currently working as visiting Lecturer at Department of Zoology, University of Peshawar. He has worked on the population and habitat of an ungulate species, Indian gazelle during his MPhil degree. Earlier in BS (Hons) degree, he had conducted research on the avian fauna of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Being a young Wildlife Biologist, his four papers are in publishing press. He has presented his MPhil and BS (Hons) research work in many international and national scientific conferences and congresses. He has worked as Internee for ungulate survey conducted in the Province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. He has more than 5 years’ experience in the field of wildlife and its conservation. He is currently member of many international and national organizations and societies.

Email: saifikhanz@yahoo.com