Impact of Anthropogenic Disturbances on Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh, India

Ahmad Masood Khan, Satish Kumar

Abstract


This study revealed that the Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus population was threatened by anthropogenic disturbances in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The Red Junglefowl density in the undisturbed habitat was higher (69 individuals/km2) than in the disturbed habitat (36 individuals/km2). The mean group size was marginally higher in disturbed habitat (3 individuals/km2) than in undisturbed habitat (2 individuals/km2). The estimated sex ratio showed no major variation among disturbed and undisturbed habitats. The present study also revealed that Red Junglefowl avoided disturbed habitats, and the results provide further evidence that protection from human activities is urgently required. Unsustainable harvesting practices need to be regulated as a large number of villagers continue to exploit resources for generating income to partially support themselves. They also collect medicinal plants and other Non-Timber Forest Products in Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary round the year

Keywords


Anthropogenic Disturbance, Red Junglefowl, Gallus gallus, Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Impact

References


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