How many locations do we need per day to reliably describe the habitat use of translocated rhinos in Manas NP?

Abstract

The Indian Rhino Vision (IRV) 2020 program was designed in 2005 in Assam for maintaining existing rhino populations and to re-introduce rhinos in the earlier distribution ranges of Assam. The programme was launched on 12^th April 2008. The government of Assam with donor support translocated two male rhinos from the Pobitora WLS to the Buraburijhar area under Basbari range in Manas National Park. As a follow up to these translocations to understand the adaptation of the rhinos, it was important to assess the monitoring frequencies, habitat use and distribution pattern of rhinos in the new habitat. Monitoring was primarily based on radio-telemetry techniques and direct observation. The monitoring team maintains a vigil on the released rhinos all round the day and the observations were systematically recorded three times a day. During this exercise it was found that the rhinos prefer to use grasslands, swamps and marshy areas (beels and rivulet).

Key Words: Indian Rhino Vision (IRV) 2020, Radio-Telemetry, Translocation