Papers by Hem Bahadur Katuwal
Sarus crane (Antigone antigone) is a flagship species. Its population is declining globally. Firs... more Sarus crane (Antigone antigone) is a flagship species. Its population is declining globally. First recorded in 1877 in Nepal, so far only a few studies have been conducted on sarus crane and results of these studies confirm their declining state. Based on previous studies, the author reviewed the status of sarus crane in Nepal. Studies show that it is uncommon with patchy distribution from Chitwan to Kanchanpur districts. More than 90% of its habitats lie outside the protected areas. Rupandehi and Kapilavastu are stronghold districts with more than 85% of its overall population. Regression analysis showed that the overall population of sarus crane has increased in Nepal. Hatching success is more than 50% and new breeding sites are also being reported. Nevertheless, threats such as drying of wetlands, conversion of farmlands to settlements and industries, power lines, nest vandalization still persist. Farmlands provide important foraging and breeding grounds. It inhibits and breeds very close to the human settlements. Thus, increasing awareness to local people and wetland/habitat restoration are necessary for its conservation. Detail scientific studies on its ecology and monitoring using cutting-edge technology in existing and new localities along with crane conservation action plan are required for maintaining the sarus crane population in Nepal. Copyright Ó 2016, National Science Museum of Korea (NSMK) and Korea National Arboretum (KNA). Production and hosting by Elsevier. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
Sacred forests are the natural areas protected by the local communities. They have different soci... more Sacred forests are the natural areas protected by the local communities. They have different socio-cultural, religious, and ecological significance. Large number of people visits these sacred forests daily which disturb the wildlife. Here we presented the species richness of birds recorded in four important sacred forests (Pashupatinath, Swyambhunath, Suryabinayak and Bajrabarahi) of Kathmandu valley, Nepal to know their significance in bird conservation. Altogether, we have recorded 195 bird species (resident-144 and migratory-51) belonging to 11 orders and 36 families. The highest number of bird species was recorded at Suryabinayak forest (168 species) whereas the least in Swyambhunath forest (113 species). We recorded one globally and five nationally threatened species while 24 as rare categorized species. We conclude that these sacred forests hold significant number of birds and also provide suitable habitat for migratory as well as threatened species although large number of people visit these forests daily. We recommend for detail ecological study and scientific management of these sacred forests.
Traditional beliefs of local communities usually contribute to biodiversity conservation and mana... more Traditional beliefs of local communities usually contribute to biodiversity conservation and management. We studied status, existing traditional beliefs, explored cause and prevailing hunting practices on Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) using semi-structured interviews in central and eastern districts of Nepal. All respondents speculated rapid decline of pangolins in last five years and most of them perceived sighting/hunting of pangolin as a bad omen in their traditions. Money is speculated as a driving force behind increasing the hunting of pangolins as most of the people have low socioeconomic status. The most commonly used hunting practices is filling burrows with water and hitting on snout of pangolins when they attempt to escape from the burrow. We conclude that the high monetary value of pangolins in China has overweighed the existing traditional beliefs to increase hunting and decline of pangolin's population. Awareness, understanding and uplifting livelihood of local communities with strong law enforcement are necessary for the conservation of pangolins in Nepal.
The Himalayas are a global hotspot for bird diversity with a large number of threatened species ,... more The Himalayas are a global hotspot for bird diversity with a large number of threatened species , but little is known about seasonal changes in bird communities along elevational gradients in this region. We studied the seasonality of bird diversity in six valleys of the Central Himalayas, Nepal. Using 318 plots with a 50 m radius, located from 2200 to 3800 m a.s.l., and repeated sampling during different seasons (mainly pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon), we analyzed 3642 occurrences of 178 species. Birds classified in the literature as resident were more species-rich than migratory birds (140 vs. 38 species). In all six valleys and within the studied elevation range, species richness of all birds showed a peak at mid-elevation levels of 2600 or 3000 m a.s.l. Similar patterns were found for the most species rich feeding guilds of insectivores (96 species) and omnivores (24 species), whereas the species richness of herbivores (37 species including frugivores) increased towards higher elevations. Among these feeding guilds, only species richness of insectivores showed pronounced seasonal changes with higher species numbers during post-monsoon season. Similarly, individual bird species showed distinct spatio-temporal distribution patterns , with transitions from species dominated by elevational differences to those characterized by strong seasonal changes. In an era of climate change, the results demonstrate that individual bird species as well as feeding guilds might greatly differ in their responses to climate warming and changes in the seasonality of the precipitation regime, two aspects of climate change which should not be analyzed independently.
We present the first parasitic evidence of Hodgson's Giant Flying Squirrel (Petaurista magnificus... more We present the first parasitic evidence of Hodgson's Giant Flying Squirrel (Petaurista magnificus) collected from Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park, Nepal. The pellets found in the large intestine were mostly rounded, grey and infested with numerous parasites. Three species of nematodes were recorded: two species of Syphacia in large intestine and one species of Oxyuris in the fecal matter. Eggs and cysts of protozoa (Eimeria spp.) and unidentified insects were also detected from its fecal matter. This study has widened the field of parasitic studies in the flying squirrels.
The population of Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus) is decreasing from Nepal. We estimated i... more The population of Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus) is decreasing from Nepal. We estimated its population in three districts of eastern Nepal in 2012. We used exact count and branch estimation method for population study and identified its roosting trees and threats with discussion with the local people. We recorded only five different colonies of Indian flying fox (three colonies in Morang and single colony in each Sunsari and Jhapa district) in eastern lowlands of Nepal. Population was significantly different within these recorded sites. The mean tree height was correlated with the mean number of roosting Indian flying fox and 11 tree species were used for the roosts. Around 47% of the respondents speculated the decline of Indian flying fox from their areas due to habitat destruction, electrocution and human disturbances as the major threats. Reasons for hunting were more for medicinal and bush meat purposes. Thus we recommend for the awareness program and continuous monitoring of Indian flying fox outside the protected areas in eastern lowlands of Nepal.
There is evidence that Himalayan Vulture Gyps himalayensis is susceptible to the veterinary drug ... more There is evidence that Himalayan Vulture Gyps himalayensis is susceptible to the veterinary drug diclofenac, which is responsible for the decline of other Gyps species across South Asia. Unlike other Gyps species, there is little quantitative data to assess Himalayan Vultures population. Based on observation, we analyzed the flock size and breeding success of the Himalayan Vultures on two cliffs of Khodpe in Baitadi District, far-west Nepal. The mean flock size of Himalayan Vulture was 25.83±6.33. Overall breeding success was 90.9% based on active nests. We also conducted a questionnaire survey to assess the perceived threats in the view of local people to vultures and these threats include loss of food, veterinary drug, lack of proper nest sites, and lack of public awareness. Additionally, 76% of the respondents felt that vultures were decreasing in the area, 94.7% were not aware of the toxicity of diclofenac to vultures, and very few (2%) knew about the availability of meloxicam as a safe alternative drug. The colony we studied is one of the few remaining known breeding populations, which provide baseline information from far-west Nepal, thus we recommend for conservation and continuous monitoring of this species to understand their population change and breeding biology.
Pangolin populations are declining globally due to illicit trade
for meat and ethno-medicinal pra... more Pangolin populations are declining globally due to illicit trade
for meat and ethno-medicinal practices. We performed semi-structured interviews to analyze scenario of trade activities and documented the ethno-medicinal importance of pangolins in four districts of eastern
Nepal. Out of 106 respondents, 78.3% had seen live pangolins, 90.6% had seen their burrows and 66% respondents speculated their decreasing population. Although 64% of the respondents were aware that pangolin is protected species, 44% of respondents had eaten its meat. We found the trade as an organized network where poachers of one village supply pangolins and its parts to poachers of another village and so on until it reaches the international border. Trade flow was more across the Chinese border via different routes where the
prices varied from US$ 500–625/kg or even more. For this illegal
trade, poachers provoke unemployed youths especially from ethnic communities. Most people hunt pangolins merely for trade without knowing its exact medicinal value. Some people, however, use meat and scales to supposedly cure gastro-intestinal disease, skin disease, cardiac problem, pregnancy pains, back pain; and also for making rings, bags, jackets, purses and musical instruments. As most pangolin
habitats lie outside protected areas, illicit trade is increasing rapidly. We recommend immediate strategic plans, effective monitoring techniques and inter-border cooperation to thwart the trade, and raise awareness of their importance.
Nepal harbors unique mammalian fauna, but it is poorly studied at higher elevation. Mammalian fau... more Nepal harbors unique mammalian fauna, but it is poorly studied at higher elevation. Mammalian fauna were recorded
in Manaslu Conservation Area, Dudhkunda and Dudhkoshi valley of Solukhumbu district and Kanchenjunga
Conservation Area of Nepal during March 2011 to April 2013 along the trail and the study plots from 700m to 4400m
a.s.l. Semi-structured interviews were made with local people to understand their behavior and habitats. Altogether,
29 mammalian fauna were recorded. Five species were recorded new for the areas. Overall, Carnivore species (nine)
were encountered more, followed by species of the order Cetartiodactyla (seven). The highest number of mammalian
fauna (18) was identified from Manaslu Conservation Area whereas the least (11) from Dudhkunda and Dudhkoshi
valley. Human wildlife conflict was frequent with Himalayan Goral (Naemorhedus goral), Barking Deer (Muntiacus
vaginalis), Himalayan Tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus), Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta), Nepal Grey Langur
(Semnopithecus schistaceus) and Himalayan Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus) for crop depredation in these areas. Although
mammalian research started a long time ago, scenario of comprehensive research is not satisfactory in the
Central Himalaya, Nepal.
Drafts by Hem Bahadur Katuwal
Sukla Phanta Wildlife Reserves is one among 27 Important Bird Areas and 20 Protected Areas of Nep... more Sukla Phanta Wildlife Reserves is one among 27 Important Bird Areas and 20 Protected Areas of Nepal. It is located in Kanchanpur district of Far-Western Development region. From 18 April 2015 to 24 April 2015, we visited Suklaphanta wildlife Reserves. 85 species of birds from 11 orders and 33 families were recorded. 12 species of threatened birds from six orders and 10 families were observed.
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Papers by Hem Bahadur Katuwal
for meat and ethno-medicinal practices. We performed semi-structured interviews to analyze scenario of trade activities and documented the ethno-medicinal importance of pangolins in four districts of eastern
Nepal. Out of 106 respondents, 78.3% had seen live pangolins, 90.6% had seen their burrows and 66% respondents speculated their decreasing population. Although 64% of the respondents were aware that pangolin is protected species, 44% of respondents had eaten its meat. We found the trade as an organized network where poachers of one village supply pangolins and its parts to poachers of another village and so on until it reaches the international border. Trade flow was more across the Chinese border via different routes where the
prices varied from US$ 500–625/kg or even more. For this illegal
trade, poachers provoke unemployed youths especially from ethnic communities. Most people hunt pangolins merely for trade without knowing its exact medicinal value. Some people, however, use meat and scales to supposedly cure gastro-intestinal disease, skin disease, cardiac problem, pregnancy pains, back pain; and also for making rings, bags, jackets, purses and musical instruments. As most pangolin
habitats lie outside protected areas, illicit trade is increasing rapidly. We recommend immediate strategic plans, effective monitoring techniques and inter-border cooperation to thwart the trade, and raise awareness of their importance.
in Manaslu Conservation Area, Dudhkunda and Dudhkoshi valley of Solukhumbu district and Kanchenjunga
Conservation Area of Nepal during March 2011 to April 2013 along the trail and the study plots from 700m to 4400m
a.s.l. Semi-structured interviews were made with local people to understand their behavior and habitats. Altogether,
29 mammalian fauna were recorded. Five species were recorded new for the areas. Overall, Carnivore species (nine)
were encountered more, followed by species of the order Cetartiodactyla (seven). The highest number of mammalian
fauna (18) was identified from Manaslu Conservation Area whereas the least (11) from Dudhkunda and Dudhkoshi
valley. Human wildlife conflict was frequent with Himalayan Goral (Naemorhedus goral), Barking Deer (Muntiacus
vaginalis), Himalayan Tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus), Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta), Nepal Grey Langur
(Semnopithecus schistaceus) and Himalayan Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus) for crop depredation in these areas. Although
mammalian research started a long time ago, scenario of comprehensive research is not satisfactory in the
Central Himalaya, Nepal.
Drafts by Hem Bahadur Katuwal
for meat and ethno-medicinal practices. We performed semi-structured interviews to analyze scenario of trade activities and documented the ethno-medicinal importance of pangolins in four districts of eastern
Nepal. Out of 106 respondents, 78.3% had seen live pangolins, 90.6% had seen their burrows and 66% respondents speculated their decreasing population. Although 64% of the respondents were aware that pangolin is protected species, 44% of respondents had eaten its meat. We found the trade as an organized network where poachers of one village supply pangolins and its parts to poachers of another village and so on until it reaches the international border. Trade flow was more across the Chinese border via different routes where the
prices varied from US$ 500–625/kg or even more. For this illegal
trade, poachers provoke unemployed youths especially from ethnic communities. Most people hunt pangolins merely for trade without knowing its exact medicinal value. Some people, however, use meat and scales to supposedly cure gastro-intestinal disease, skin disease, cardiac problem, pregnancy pains, back pain; and also for making rings, bags, jackets, purses and musical instruments. As most pangolin
habitats lie outside protected areas, illicit trade is increasing rapidly. We recommend immediate strategic plans, effective monitoring techniques and inter-border cooperation to thwart the trade, and raise awareness of their importance.
in Manaslu Conservation Area, Dudhkunda and Dudhkoshi valley of Solukhumbu district and Kanchenjunga
Conservation Area of Nepal during March 2011 to April 2013 along the trail and the study plots from 700m to 4400m
a.s.l. Semi-structured interviews were made with local people to understand their behavior and habitats. Altogether,
29 mammalian fauna were recorded. Five species were recorded new for the areas. Overall, Carnivore species (nine)
were encountered more, followed by species of the order Cetartiodactyla (seven). The highest number of mammalian
fauna (18) was identified from Manaslu Conservation Area whereas the least (11) from Dudhkunda and Dudhkoshi
valley. Human wildlife conflict was frequent with Himalayan Goral (Naemorhedus goral), Barking Deer (Muntiacus
vaginalis), Himalayan Tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus), Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta), Nepal Grey Langur
(Semnopithecus schistaceus) and Himalayan Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus) for crop depredation in these areas. Although
mammalian research started a long time ago, scenario of comprehensive research is not satisfactory in the
Central Himalaya, Nepal.