Spotted Deer Population Growth:
- The population of spotted deer (Chital) in Nagarahole Tiger Reserve has reached an impressive density of 28 per square kilometer.
- This marks a steady increase in the deer population in recent years, reflecting a healthy ecosystem.
Relevance : GS 3(Environment)
Location and Reserve Details:
- Nagarahole Tiger Reserve spans 847.981 sq. km in the districts of Mysuru and Kodagu in Karnataka.
- The core area is 643.392 sq. km, while the buffer zone covers 204.589 sq. km.
- It is strategically located between Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, connecting crucial wildlife corridors.
Biodiversity in Nagarahole:
- Nagarahole is home to various species of carnivores and herbivores, including tigers, leopards, Asiatic wild dogs, sloth bears, elephants, and the four-horned antelope.
- This rich biodiversity supports the ecosystem and indicates a balanced prey-predator dynamic.
Health of Prey-Predator Balance:
- Seema P.A., Deputy Conservator of Forests and Director of the Reserve, emphasized that the increase in the spotted deer population indicates a healthy prey-predator relationship.
- The balanced numbers of both predators (tigers, leopards) and prey (deer, wild boar) contribute to ecological stability.
- The reserve is home to 142 tigers as per the 2023 census, ranking third in tiger population in India.
Contributing Factors to Population Increase:
- Food Availability: The abundance of grass and forage contributes to higher prey density, which supports both herbivores and predators.
- Habitat Diversity: The terrain’s variety, ranging from scrub to evergreen forests, creates an ideal environment for sustaining diverse wildlife populations, including spotted deer.
Ecological Implications:
- The increase in spotted deer population suggests that the reserve is thriving, with sufficient resources to support both herbivores and carnivores.
- A rise in deer numbers also means better sustenance for apex predators like tigers, enhancing their survival rate.
Implications:
Ecological Balance:
- The growing spotted deer population reflects a thriving prey base, which is crucial for maintaining the tiger population and overall biodiversity.
- The healthy predator-prey dynamics ensure that the ecosystem remains stable, with tigers and other predators having a reliable food source.
Biodiversity Conservation:
- Nagarahole’s ecological stability underscores the importance of protecting wildlife corridors and preserving natural habitats in the Western Ghats.
- The reserve’s ability to support a diverse range of species contributes to broader conservation efforts, not just in Karnataka, but across the Western Ghats.
Tourism and Wildlife Viewing:
- With a high density of spotted deer and other large mammals, Nagarahole Tiger Reserve is likely to attract more wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourism.
- Increased tourist interest can provide economic support for conservation initiatives, but it must be balanced with sustainable tourism practices to avoid disrupting the wildlife.
Habitat and Ecosystem Management:
- The variety in terrain and vegetation is key to sustaining both herbivores and predators. Conservation efforts should focus on maintaining habitat diversity and ensuring that human encroachment does not harm wildlife corridors.
- Ongoing monitoring of species populations and habitat health will be essential to manage future growth and prevent overpopulation or resource depletion.
Wildlife Protection and Future Challenges:
- While the deer population is flourishing, future challenges may include managing the growing herbivore population to prevent overgrazing and maintain forest health.
- Coordination with other wildlife reserves and protected areas in the region will be necessary to maintain ecological balance and prevent fragmentation of habitats.
