Home / Environment / Census Reveals Thriving Wildlife in Pench Reserve
Census Reveals Thriving Wildlife in Pench Reserve
5 May
Summary
- Wildlife census counted 2,764 sightings, with herbivores being most numerous.
- Tiger and leopard populations show stability with 11 and 18 sightings respectively.
- Diverse bird species, including peacocks and eagles, were observed near water.
A comprehensive wildlife census, held on Buddha Purnima, May 1, has shown robust animal populations within the Pench Tiger Reserve and UPK Sanctuary. The exercise, involving 120 volunteers across 76 observation posts, aimed to assess herbivore presence and forest health. Trained forest staff exclusively occupied observation posts in the core ranges of Pench Tiger Reserve, ensuring precise data collection in sensitive areas.
The census recorded a total of 2,764 wildlife sightings. Herbivores were the most frequently observed, with over 1,000 sightings of spotted deer and 425 of sambar, suggesting a healthy prey base. The presence of omnivores and primates, including monkeys and wild boar, was also significant across all monitored areas.
Carnivore populations appear stable, with 11 tiger and 18 leopard sightings documented. Abundant sightings of wild dogs, exceeding 40, were also noted. Bird diversity is thriving, with species like peacocks, eagles, and jungle fowl frequently observed near water sources, contributing to the overall indication of a healthy ecosystem.
