We conducted an ornithological survey of five wetlands in Shahjahanpur district of Uttar Pradesh.... more We conducted an ornithological survey of five wetlands in Shahjahanpur district of Uttar Pradesh. The study's objectives were to know the current status of water birds and associated threats to the wetland. During the survey, a total of 32 water birds were recorded. Among these, five species are listed under Schedule 1, indicating they are afforded the highest level of protection due to their vulnerable status. Additionally, three species have been classified as Near Threatened. Threats to these wetlands and conservation strategies are highlighted.
The Ruddy Mongoose Herpestes smithii was recorded for the first time in Katerniaghat Wildlife San... more The Ruddy Mongoose Herpestes smithii was recorded for the first time in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh. This would increase the known range of the Ruddy Mongoose from India and is the first photographic evidence from Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The record of Ruddy Mongoose would contribute to the list of mammals of Uttar Pradesh.
Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology, 2024
The discovery of an albino Oligodon arnensis in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, marks a significant additi... more The discovery of an albino Oligodon arnensis in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, marks a significant addition to the known distribution of this species. Previously, Oligodon arnensis, a rare variant of the kukri snake, had been observed only once before in Rudrapur, Uttarakhand, making this find particularly noteworthy. Such records are crucial for understanding the biodiversity and distribution patterns of reptiles in India, contributing to the conservation efforts and scientific knowledge of herpetofauna in the region.
A lbinism is the absence of integumentary and retinal pigmentation, resulting in a pale yellowish... more A lbinism is the absence of integumentary and retinal pigmentation, resulting in a pale yellowish-pink skin and red eyes (Bechtel 1995). Albinos are rare in nature because they rarely survive and reproduce (e.g., Bechtel and Bechtel 1982; Krecsák 2008). Albino Spectacled Cobras (Naja naja) have been documented in the Indian states of Madhya
Rynchops albicollis is an Endangered riverine bird that is undergoing rapid population decline (B... more Rynchops albicollis is an Endangered riverine bird that is undergoing rapid population decline (Birdlife International 2023). We report two records of Indian Skimmer on the Gomti River of Uttar Pradesh and discuss its potential for breeding. In India, the Skimmers are confined to large river systems but also occur in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and some countries in Southeast Asia, such as Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. It is now considered extinct in the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, is a rare visitor to Nepal, and has also been recorded in China (Sundar 2004). Indian Skimmers are gregarious and colonial and are often found in flocks (Rajguru 2017). We recorded a flock of 57 Indian Skimmers resting on a small sandy island on the Gomti River near Palauli (26.66°N, 81.44°E) on 28 February 2022. We observed the flock on three days in the same location during that month. We also observed small shallow depressions on the ground that might have been their attempts to breed. On 07 March 2022, a single skimmer was observed downstream, which is aerially c.14 km along the channel near a location called Devait (26.67°N, 81.56°E), as it skimmed over the water surface. Hence, it is possible that there are similar islets on the river, which might offer possible breeding sites. However, we observed high levels of human interference on the riverscape and sandy islands during the survey. As this river flows through a highly agriculture-dependent area, various activities, such as water extraction, fishing, cattle grazing, sand mining, and other activities, were observed. Such a high rate of disturbance from humans and livestock is a major threat to riverine nesting birds, and hence, the chances of successful breeding are bleak (SoIB 2023). The important river systems for the Indian Skimmer in India are Chambal, Ganga, Mahanadi, Yamuna, and Son (SoIB 2023). The Gomti River is one of the important tributaries of the Ganga River, originating from the Pilibhit district and confluences with Ganga in the Ghazipur district, covering c.835 km. The river drains the areas between the Ramganga and Sharda Rivers in the upper region and the Ganga and Ghagra Rivers in the lower region. Historically, there have been very few records of Indian Skimmer from the Gomti River. BirdLife International (2001) quotes a record by Jesse from the Lucknow region on Gomti from 1902. Since then, no other Indian Skimmer has been reported from this particular river based on a literature survey (Islam &
Baseline data of herpetofauna of a wildlife corridor is significant for the holistic conservation... more Baseline data of herpetofauna of a wildlife corridor is significant for the holistic conservation and protection of the landscape. The understudied species of reptiles and amphibians are an important indicator of ecosystem health and habitat structure. We used multiple non-invasive methods to document and collect data from 2015 to 2019 and undertook surveys across five habitat types. We recorded 52 species belonging to 17 families and 38 genera. 23 species of snakes were recorded, which was the most dominant taxonomic group. Five threatened species were recorded with one Critically Endangered tortoise and one Endangered turtle species. Structural complexity, availability of multiple habitats and microhabitats, and water are the major factors influencing herpetofaunal assemblage.
The study, which lasted from November 2013 to January 2014, sought to learn more about the presen... more The study, which lasted from November 2013 to January 2014, sought to learn more about the presence of snow leopards, the availability of prey in the area, and other carnivores/wildlife in the Bageshwar division. (Sunderdhunga Valley). The presence of snow leopards was confirmed through sign surveys using the Snow Leopard Information Management System (SLIMS) protocol. During the survey, 45 signs were discovered, including 20 signs of Snow leopard pugmarks between 3045 and 4618 meters. The number of snow leopards in the study area was estimated to be 1-2 animals based on the information obtained. The greatest sign concentration has been observed in the Sukram-Maiktoli region (3.10 sign/km), tried to follow by the Athalia-Sukram Cave area (2.62), Kathaliya-Sunderdhunga glacier (2.37), and Jatoli-Katoli region (2.37). (1.77). Based on camera trap results, direct sightings, and the fixpoint count method, a total of 67 Himalayan Tahr, 34 Blue sheep, 08 Musk deer, and 04 Serow were counted in the area.
The present communication deals with the first time sighting of four albino Spectacled Cobras, Na... more The present communication deals with the first time sighting of four albino Spectacled Cobras, Naja naja (Linnaeus, 1758) from Haldwani (Nainital district) in Kumaon division and the state of Uttarakhand as a whole.
The Ruddy Mongoose Herpestes smithii was recorded for the first time in Katerniaghat Wildlife San... more The Ruddy Mongoose Herpestes smithii was recorded for the first time in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh. This would increase the known range of the Ruddy Mongoose from India and is the first photographic evidence from Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The record of Ruddy Mongoose would contribute to the list of mammals of Uttar Pradesh.
We reported the new record of Coral Red Khukri Snake (Oligodon kheriensis) from Surai Range of Ha... more We reported the new record of Coral Red Khukri Snake (Oligodon kheriensis) from Surai Range of Haldwani -Tarai East Forest Division, Uttarakhand. The specimen of Oligodon kheriensis had been spotted only four times in the past. This is the first report of this Snake from Uttarakhand. We encountered 6 different individuals of Oligodon kheriensis over a period of ten months.
Striped Hyena Hyaena hyaena is a large carnivorous mammal found in parts of Africa, the Middle Ea... more Striped Hyena Hyaena hyaena is a large carnivorous mammal found in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and India. Though the mammal is largely distributed across the globe, it is listed under the Near Threatened category by IUCN Red List. Uttarakhand is one of the states in India that is highly rich in biodiversity. The last reported evidence of the Striped Hyena in Ramnagar Division, Uttarakhand, was in a working plan in 1977. All India tiger estimations through camera traps conducted in 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2016 failed to record the species in the area. The current study conducted in March–December 2015 utilized opportunistic sampling methods to confirm the presence of hyenas in Ramnagar Forest Division of Uttarakhand. The study presents photographic evidence of the Striped Hyena in the area.
The Chilkiya-Kota Elephant Corridor (Dhangari-Sunderkhal) is a vital
wildlife corridor in Corbet... more The Chilkiya-Kota Elephant Corridor (Dhangari-Sunderkhal) is a vital
wildlife corridor in Corbett Landscape, Uttarakhand, India facilitating
connectivity between the Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) and Ramnagar
Forest Division part of which is being blocked due to encroachment. A list
important mammalian species observed in and around this vital wildlife
corridor is compiled for strengthening the need of securement and longterm
conservation of this vital corridor for unhindered movement and
dispersal of various wildlife.
Plastics on Elephant Food menu: A persistent killer or not? A field observation from Haldwani Tar... more Plastics on Elephant Food menu: A persistent killer or not? A field observation from Haldwani Tarai forest Division, Uttarakhand.
The snow leopard Panthera uncia is probably the most charismatic carnivore to
roam the mountains ... more The snow leopard Panthera uncia is probably the most charismatic carnivore to roam the mountains of Asia. The aim of our study was to collect more information about snow leopard presence, prey availability in the area and other carnivores and wildlife in the Kumaon region of Himalayas, the west-central section of the Himalayas in northern India. Our study was conducted from November 2013 to January 2014. Snow leopard occurrence in the region was confirmed and we report here the first photographic evidence of snow leopard in Bageshwar district, State of Uttarakhand.
We conducted an ornithological survey of five wetlands in Shahjahanpur district of Uttar Pradesh.... more We conducted an ornithological survey of five wetlands in Shahjahanpur district of Uttar Pradesh. The study's objectives were to know the current status of water birds and associated threats to the wetland. During the survey, a total of 32 water birds were recorded. Among these, five species are listed under Schedule 1, indicating they are afforded the highest level of protection due to their vulnerable status. Additionally, three species have been classified as Near Threatened. Threats to these wetlands and conservation strategies are highlighted.
The Ruddy Mongoose Herpestes smithii was recorded for the first time in Katerniaghat Wildlife San... more The Ruddy Mongoose Herpestes smithii was recorded for the first time in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh. This would increase the known range of the Ruddy Mongoose from India and is the first photographic evidence from Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The record of Ruddy Mongoose would contribute to the list of mammals of Uttar Pradesh.
Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology, 2024
The discovery of an albino Oligodon arnensis in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, marks a significant additi... more The discovery of an albino Oligodon arnensis in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, marks a significant addition to the known distribution of this species. Previously, Oligodon arnensis, a rare variant of the kukri snake, had been observed only once before in Rudrapur, Uttarakhand, making this find particularly noteworthy. Such records are crucial for understanding the biodiversity and distribution patterns of reptiles in India, contributing to the conservation efforts and scientific knowledge of herpetofauna in the region.
A lbinism is the absence of integumentary and retinal pigmentation, resulting in a pale yellowish... more A lbinism is the absence of integumentary and retinal pigmentation, resulting in a pale yellowish-pink skin and red eyes (Bechtel 1995). Albinos are rare in nature because they rarely survive and reproduce (e.g., Bechtel and Bechtel 1982; Krecsák 2008). Albino Spectacled Cobras (Naja naja) have been documented in the Indian states of Madhya
Rynchops albicollis is an Endangered riverine bird that is undergoing rapid population decline (B... more Rynchops albicollis is an Endangered riverine bird that is undergoing rapid population decline (Birdlife International 2023). We report two records of Indian Skimmer on the Gomti River of Uttar Pradesh and discuss its potential for breeding. In India, the Skimmers are confined to large river systems but also occur in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and some countries in Southeast Asia, such as Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. It is now considered extinct in the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, is a rare visitor to Nepal, and has also been recorded in China (Sundar 2004). Indian Skimmers are gregarious and colonial and are often found in flocks (Rajguru 2017). We recorded a flock of 57 Indian Skimmers resting on a small sandy island on the Gomti River near Palauli (26.66°N, 81.44°E) on 28 February 2022. We observed the flock on three days in the same location during that month. We also observed small shallow depressions on the ground that might have been their attempts to breed. On 07 March 2022, a single skimmer was observed downstream, which is aerially c.14 km along the channel near a location called Devait (26.67°N, 81.56°E), as it skimmed over the water surface. Hence, it is possible that there are similar islets on the river, which might offer possible breeding sites. However, we observed high levels of human interference on the riverscape and sandy islands during the survey. As this river flows through a highly agriculture-dependent area, various activities, such as water extraction, fishing, cattle grazing, sand mining, and other activities, were observed. Such a high rate of disturbance from humans and livestock is a major threat to riverine nesting birds, and hence, the chances of successful breeding are bleak (SoIB 2023). The important river systems for the Indian Skimmer in India are Chambal, Ganga, Mahanadi, Yamuna, and Son (SoIB 2023). The Gomti River is one of the important tributaries of the Ganga River, originating from the Pilibhit district and confluences with Ganga in the Ghazipur district, covering c.835 km. The river drains the areas between the Ramganga and Sharda Rivers in the upper region and the Ganga and Ghagra Rivers in the lower region. Historically, there have been very few records of Indian Skimmer from the Gomti River. BirdLife International (2001) quotes a record by Jesse from the Lucknow region on Gomti from 1902. Since then, no other Indian Skimmer has been reported from this particular river based on a literature survey (Islam &
Baseline data of herpetofauna of a wildlife corridor is significant for the holistic conservation... more Baseline data of herpetofauna of a wildlife corridor is significant for the holistic conservation and protection of the landscape. The understudied species of reptiles and amphibians are an important indicator of ecosystem health and habitat structure. We used multiple non-invasive methods to document and collect data from 2015 to 2019 and undertook surveys across five habitat types. We recorded 52 species belonging to 17 families and 38 genera. 23 species of snakes were recorded, which was the most dominant taxonomic group. Five threatened species were recorded with one Critically Endangered tortoise and one Endangered turtle species. Structural complexity, availability of multiple habitats and microhabitats, and water are the major factors influencing herpetofaunal assemblage.
The study, which lasted from November 2013 to January 2014, sought to learn more about the presen... more The study, which lasted from November 2013 to January 2014, sought to learn more about the presence of snow leopards, the availability of prey in the area, and other carnivores/wildlife in the Bageshwar division. (Sunderdhunga Valley). The presence of snow leopards was confirmed through sign surveys using the Snow Leopard Information Management System (SLIMS) protocol. During the survey, 45 signs were discovered, including 20 signs of Snow leopard pugmarks between 3045 and 4618 meters. The number of snow leopards in the study area was estimated to be 1-2 animals based on the information obtained. The greatest sign concentration has been observed in the Sukram-Maiktoli region (3.10 sign/km), tried to follow by the Athalia-Sukram Cave area (2.62), Kathaliya-Sunderdhunga glacier (2.37), and Jatoli-Katoli region (2.37). (1.77). Based on camera trap results, direct sightings, and the fixpoint count method, a total of 67 Himalayan Tahr, 34 Blue sheep, 08 Musk deer, and 04 Serow were counted in the area.
The present communication deals with the first time sighting of four albino Spectacled Cobras, Na... more The present communication deals with the first time sighting of four albino Spectacled Cobras, Naja naja (Linnaeus, 1758) from Haldwani (Nainital district) in Kumaon division and the state of Uttarakhand as a whole.
The Ruddy Mongoose Herpestes smithii was recorded for the first time in Katerniaghat Wildlife San... more The Ruddy Mongoose Herpestes smithii was recorded for the first time in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh. This would increase the known range of the Ruddy Mongoose from India and is the first photographic evidence from Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The record of Ruddy Mongoose would contribute to the list of mammals of Uttar Pradesh.
We reported the new record of Coral Red Khukri Snake (Oligodon kheriensis) from Surai Range of Ha... more We reported the new record of Coral Red Khukri Snake (Oligodon kheriensis) from Surai Range of Haldwani -Tarai East Forest Division, Uttarakhand. The specimen of Oligodon kheriensis had been spotted only four times in the past. This is the first report of this Snake from Uttarakhand. We encountered 6 different individuals of Oligodon kheriensis over a period of ten months.
Striped Hyena Hyaena hyaena is a large carnivorous mammal found in parts of Africa, the Middle Ea... more Striped Hyena Hyaena hyaena is a large carnivorous mammal found in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and India. Though the mammal is largely distributed across the globe, it is listed under the Near Threatened category by IUCN Red List. Uttarakhand is one of the states in India that is highly rich in biodiversity. The last reported evidence of the Striped Hyena in Ramnagar Division, Uttarakhand, was in a working plan in 1977. All India tiger estimations through camera traps conducted in 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2016 failed to record the species in the area. The current study conducted in March–December 2015 utilized opportunistic sampling methods to confirm the presence of hyenas in Ramnagar Forest Division of Uttarakhand. The study presents photographic evidence of the Striped Hyena in the area.
The Chilkiya-Kota Elephant Corridor (Dhangari-Sunderkhal) is a vital
wildlife corridor in Corbet... more The Chilkiya-Kota Elephant Corridor (Dhangari-Sunderkhal) is a vital
wildlife corridor in Corbett Landscape, Uttarakhand, India facilitating
connectivity between the Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) and Ramnagar
Forest Division part of which is being blocked due to encroachment. A list
important mammalian species observed in and around this vital wildlife
corridor is compiled for strengthening the need of securement and longterm
conservation of this vital corridor for unhindered movement and
dispersal of various wildlife.
Plastics on Elephant Food menu: A persistent killer or not? A field observation from Haldwani Tar... more Plastics on Elephant Food menu: A persistent killer or not? A field observation from Haldwani Tarai forest Division, Uttarakhand.
The snow leopard Panthera uncia is probably the most charismatic carnivore to
roam the mountains ... more The snow leopard Panthera uncia is probably the most charismatic carnivore to roam the mountains of Asia. The aim of our study was to collect more information about snow leopard presence, prey availability in the area and other carnivores and wildlife in the Kumaon region of Himalayas, the west-central section of the Himalayas in northern India. Our study was conducted from November 2013 to January 2014. Snow leopard occurrence in the region was confirmed and we report here the first photographic evidence of snow leopard in Bageshwar district, State of Uttarakhand.
Human animal conflict arguably remains one of the most complexes of all wildlife conservation and... more Human animal conflict arguably remains one of the most complexes of all wildlife conservation and management problems. Many people believe that wildlife conservation is important, but the vast majorities have never done anything about it. In Uttarakhand, where most of the populations are dependent on forest. Man animal conflict is increasing day by day because of pressure on forest. So the present study was carried out in Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. The aim of the study was examining the opinion of people about Wildlife Conservation and identify the causes of conflict as well as plan for future measures of minimizing the conflict.In order to stop the conflicts between man and animal, people suggested for the proper fencing around the agricultural land so that it would be the best measure to check the conflicts. Also villagers suggested for Van Panchayat and alternate employment opportunities as a measure to minimize the conflict between man and animals. Besides, it also includes provision of alternative resources, proper demarcation and fencing of the sanctuary boundary.
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Papers by Vipul Maurya
During the survey, a total of 32 water birds were recorded. Among these, five species are listed under Schedule 1, indicating they are afforded the highest level of protection due to their vulnerable status. Additionally, three species have been classified as Near Threatened. Threats to these wetlands and conservation strategies are highlighted.
wildlife corridor in Corbett Landscape, Uttarakhand, India facilitating
connectivity between the Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) and Ramnagar
Forest Division part of which is being blocked due to encroachment. A list
important mammalian species observed in and around this vital wildlife
corridor is compiled for strengthening the need of securement and longterm
conservation of this vital corridor for unhindered movement and
dispersal of various wildlife.
roam the mountains of Asia. The aim of our study was to collect more information
about snow leopard presence, prey availability in the area and other carnivores and
wildlife in the Kumaon region of Himalayas, the west-central section of the Himalayas
in northern India. Our study was conducted from November 2013 to January 2014.
Snow leopard occurrence in the region was confirmed and we report here the first
photographic evidence of snow leopard in Bageshwar district, State of Uttarakhand.
During the survey, a total of 32 water birds were recorded. Among these, five species are listed under Schedule 1, indicating they are afforded the highest level of protection due to their vulnerable status. Additionally, three species have been classified as Near Threatened. Threats to these wetlands and conservation strategies are highlighted.
wildlife corridor in Corbett Landscape, Uttarakhand, India facilitating
connectivity between the Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) and Ramnagar
Forest Division part of which is being blocked due to encroachment. A list
important mammalian species observed in and around this vital wildlife
corridor is compiled for strengthening the need of securement and longterm
conservation of this vital corridor for unhindered movement and
dispersal of various wildlife.
roam the mountains of Asia. The aim of our study was to collect more information
about snow leopard presence, prey availability in the area and other carnivores and
wildlife in the Kumaon region of Himalayas, the west-central section of the Himalayas
in northern India. Our study was conducted from November 2013 to January 2014.
Snow leopard occurrence in the region was confirmed and we report here the first
photographic evidence of snow leopard in Bageshwar district, State of Uttarakhand.