The Bagh Resort, Bharatpur

The Bagh Resort, Bharatpur

The Bagh is a heritage hotel set in 12acres two hundred year-old garden in Bharatpur Rajasthan, itislocated just four hours away from major destinations such as Delhi, Jaipur and Gwalior. The Bagh offers visitors an opportunity to experience quiet luxury near Keoladeo Ghana National Park, one of the most famous bird sanctuaries in the world.

The hotel's fourteen rooms are located in three different residential complexes. A restaurant, banquet hall, coffee shop, library and a gym, all situated in a verdant orchard, allow guests to enjoy solitude and companionship in restful indoor and outdoor spaces.

The Bagh is a heritage hotel set in 12 acres two hundred year-old garden in Bharatpur Rajasthan, it is located just four hours away from major destinations such as Delhi, Jaipur and Gwalior. The Bagh offers visitors an opportunity to experience quiet luxury near Keoladeo Ghana National Park, one of the most famous bird sanctuaries in the world. The hotel's fourteen rooms are located in three different residential complexes. A restaurant, banquet hall, coffee shop, library and a gym, all situated in a verdantorchard, allow guests to enjoy solitude and companionship in restful indoor and outdoor spaces.

Each of the Bagh's fourteen rooms is unique. Spacious bathrooms, luxurious fabrics, fine furnishings and the amenities of modern technology let the weary traveler retreat and recoup after a day of sightseeing and bird watching. Gulmohar, the main restaurant, specializes in the wonderful vegetarian cuisine of the Braj region. An ayurvedic massage or a lazy swim at the fully - equipped gym can further soothe and exhilarate the body and the mind (to be ready shortly).

Facilities at The Bagh are:

21 unique rooms with luxurious fabrics and designed for comfort and intimacy

Restaurant Gulmohar. (The Gulmohar Restaurant serving Braj cuisine

Swimming pool

Mahua: The outdoor bar serves an assortment of alcholic and non-alcoholic drinks with light snacks. Musician perform for the guests'pleasure.

Morchalli: The banquet hall hosts private events and dinners. 

Bharatpur is the home of the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, famous for its bird sanctuary. Although only 29 square kilometers in size, it houses more than 375 avian species of which more than a 132 breed inside the park. Nearly every year, new birds are added to the bird watcher's list. Distance :  4 km from the railway station / bus stand,  Agra (56 km, 1 hour),  Delhi (176 km, 4 hours) and Jaipur (176 km, 4 hours), Keoladeo Ghana National Park : 1 km..

Ranthambhore National Park ( For Tiger Land Safari, Luxury Nature Trip )

Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve in the Rajasthan state of India, comprises distinct areas with varied conservation history and virtually separated geographically with mere narrow corridors linking them to the core, Ranthambhore National Park. These are mainly, the Ranthambhore National Park, Keladevi Sanctuary and Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary.

Ranthambhore National Park
The Ranthambhore National Park at the junction of the Aravalis and the Vindhyas, is a unique juxtaposition of natural and historical richness, standing out conspicuously in the vast, arid and denuded tract of eastern Rajasthan,barely 14 kilometer from the town, Sawai Madhopur. It spreads over a highly undulating topography varying from gentle to steep slopes; from flat topped hills (Indala, Doodh-Bhat and Chiroli) of the Vindhyas to the conical hillocks and sharp ridges of the Aravalis; from wide and flat valleys (Lahpur, Nalghati, Khachida, Anantpur etc.) to narrow rocky gorges. An important geological feature, the "Great Boundary fault' where the Vindhyas were brought against the much ancient Aravalis, passes from here.

Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary
The terrain is flat and rocky and some hills with gentle slopes. Devpura irrigation dam, in the Sanctuary is a useful source of water for wildlife and good habitat for aquatic flora and fauna.Keladevi Sanctuary

The Keladevi Sanctuary is northern extension of the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve in Karauli and Sawai Madhopur districts. There are hills in the south, north and eastern parts. At many places, it has a curious feature of two separate ridges running parallel to each other. The forest between such ridges dense. The Sanctuary is bounded in the west by the river Banas and in the south by the river Chambal. The Banas finally flows into the Chambal.

Some gorges due to high moisture retention and cooler temperature are nature's treasure houses. They are locally known as "Khoh". The slopes of the Khohs are covered with dense forest. These Khohs are the most suitable habitat for wildlife. The main Khohs in Keladevi are Nibhera, Kudka, Chiarmul, Ghanteshwar, Jail and Chidi. The forest cover is fairly sparse and spread out in the other parts.

Location of Ranthambhore National Park :The Ranthambhore park and reserve lies in the desert state of Rajasthan on the main DelhiMumbai railway line and is readily accessible from Jaipur (145km; 90 miles). Sawai Madhopur, the nearest railhead and gateway to the park, lies 11 km (7 miles) away..

Climate of Ranthambhore National Park :Summer.(April-June) temperatures rise to 40°C (104°F). Winter nights are cold (8°C; 46°F).

When to go (Ranthambhore National Park) :The best time to go is in winter (December to February) and March/April. The park is closed during the monsoon period; it reopens on 1 October.

Getting to Ranthambhore National Park :The nearest town is Sawai Madhopur, which has a good bus service with many connections.

Facilities at Ranthambhore National Park : Madhopur has excellent resorts and eco-Iodges: Taj group-owned Sawai Madhopur Lodge (old hunting lodge of Maharaja of Jaipur); new Vanyavilas, super luxury tented resort owned by Oberoi Hotels. Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) manages more basic and functional Hotel Kamadhenu and Castle Jhoomar Baori Forest Lodge.

Wildlife in Ranthambhore National Park : Interesting array of fauna includes Tiger, Panther (Leopard), Hyena, deer, Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, and Jungle Cat. Prolific bird species. Ranger-led safaris in open-sided jeeps and Canters (20-seater, openroofed trucks); drives around picturesque reservoirs (good for photography).

Permits and Reservations for Ranthambhore National Park : For information and accommodation, contact: Field Director, Rantharnbhore National Park and Tiger Reserve, Sawai Madhopur, Raiasthan-322001.

Conservation History
Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve was among the first nine Tiger Reserve declared in 1973 at the launch of Project Tiger in India. It comprised the former Sawai Madhopur Wildlife Sanctuary of 392.5 sq. km. Reserved Forest (constituted in 1955).

Ranthambhore National Park with an area of 274.5 sq. km. was constituted within the Tiger Reserve in 1980. In the then Tiger Reserve, the National Park area was being managed as the core and the rest as buffer until in 1992, Keladevi Sanctuary having area of 674 sq. km. of Protected Forest (constituted in 1983), Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary with an area of 127 sq. km. (constituted in 1984). Kualji Close Area of 7.58 sq. km. and some other forest areas were added to the Reserve.

Archeology
Ranthambhore fort and temples of medieval period.

Forest Types  
Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests

Main Species(Flora )
Dhok mixed with Khair, Raunj, Goya, Chhela, Pipal, Vad, Amaltas, Gurjan, Siris Saintha, Gular, Tendu

Main Species( Fauna)
Tiger, Leopard, Caracal, Ratel, Jungle Cat, Chital, Sambar, Blue Bull, Chinkara, Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Jackal, Hyena, Common Langur, Common fox

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IFAW releases rescued orphan elephants to the wild in India

31 January 2011
(Assam, India) - Today, five hand-raised, endangered elephant calves were moved from the IFAW Wildlife Rescue Center in Kaziranga to Manas National Park in the northeast Indian state of Assam.

Implemented by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW - www.ifaw.org ) and its partner organization the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), the release is part of an ongoing effort to integrate orphaned elephants into wild herds in Manas. This critical work is carried out with the support of the Assam Forest Department and the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC).

The calves, one females and four males between the age of three and six years, were rescued under various circumstances from different parts of Assam. All of these calves were separated from their natal herds - two were victims of conflicts with people, one displaced during floods while the remaining two were found in tea gardens. They were admitted to the center because they could not be reunited with their herds.

The elephants were hand-raised by IFAW-WTI veterinarians and animal keepers. The calves were bottle-fed, introduced to each other to facilitate social bonding and went for walks in the forest for opportunities to browse and graze in the wild. Prior to the move, the calves were loaded onto trucks on Sunday and then moved to Manas National Park for in situ acclimatization.
At Manas, the behavior of the elephants as individuals as well as their interactions with each other and other wild elephants will be carefully observed and recorded. Once the calves completely detach from their caretakers and return to the wild, they will be monitored through radio-collars.

“We're very pleased to see these elephants walking the forests of Manas National Park. This is a vital step towards their reintegration to the wild but there are still many hurdles to overcome. Our 'soft release' program will allow elephants to gradually become fully independent at their own pace,” said Ian Robinson, IFAW Emergency Relief Director.

This relocation is the third time elephant calves have been moved to Manas after undergoing rehabilitation. Previously, eight calves were successfully moved and to this day, four of these calves have established themselves in the wild with evidence of some calves being accepted by wild herds. The project is one of the various conservation initiatives being implemented by the authorities and IFAW-WTI as part of their efforts to bring Manas back to its former glory.

“Manas has always been an area of high conservation priority, as indicated by its status as a national park, a tiger reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surviving a rough phase during the civil unrest when among other losses, its entire population of rhinos was wiped out, and in the face of threats of losing its world heritage status, Manas is now regaining its fame with pro-active initiatives by the government and the people,” said Vivek Menon, WTI Executive Director.

In 2006, rhinoceros were brought back to Manas for the first time since the local population was exterminated. In addition to rhino reintroduction and rehabilitation of other key flagships like the tiger and the elephants, IFAW-WTI has also been assisting the Forest Department and BTC authorities in various community-based conservation activities, capacity-building of frontline staff and support to grassroots conservation organizations.

News source by : http://www.ifaw.org/ifaw_international/media_center/press_releases/1_31_2011_69360.php

Was the wrong tiger killed in Kumaon?

LUCKNOW: A day after Uttarakhand forest officials shot a tiger claiming it had killed six people in and around Kumaon's Corbett Reserve, doubts are being raised if the big cat felled on Thursday was a man-eater.

The Corbett authorities who had earlier claimed that the man-eater was a tigress, on Friday said the feline shot by Ramnagar forest officials was a "rare specimen with female characterstics". With deformity in both its hind claws, the pug marks of the tiger made them look like that of a tigress. "Whatever doubts have arisen, could be because of this assumption of ours," said Corbett park warden U C Tiwari on Friday adding, "it was a tiger with female characteristics."

The contention was outrightly rejected by wildlife experts. "The pug mark impressions are very distinct and are impressions of paws and not claws," said former director of Dudhwa G C Mishra. He added that this leaves little chance of a goof up. "We are yet to come across a tiger with "female characteristics," he said.

"If they have killed a wrong tiger and a man-eater is still at large, killings (of men) will take place in some 15-20 days," he warned.

Former director, Project Tiger, R L Singh said: "I agree that pug marks are misleading evidence, but I have never ever come across a tiger with any of its claws like that of a female. Though the cubs can have their claws look like that of a female, the Corbett tiger was an old one."

Read more: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Was-the-wrong-tiger-killed-in-Kumaon/articleshow/7383171.cms

Keoladeo Ghana (Bharatpur) National Park ( For Exclusive Birding Trip )

Keoladeo National Park in Bharatput is a pilgrimage for the bird lovers and is a paradise for those interested in the avian world. During the British raj also it was renowned as the best duck shooting reserve. However, in 1956 it was declared a reserve for birds and later graded as the national park of India. It has been listed as the World Heritage site by UNESCO. It is located at an ideal geographical location on the main avian route of North-South India. This national park is quite is quite small in size spread across 29 km but it boasts of housing more than 375 species of gorgeous birds, out of which more than 132 of them breed inside the National Park adding new ones to the list each year.

This sanctuary attracts birds from all over the world including China, Siberia, Europe and Tibet along with those found in India. The resident bird activity starts before the monsoons on the Kadamb and Babool trees of the park. The Ajan Bandh water fills the ponds and lakes of the park for these birds to nest around it.

Keoladeo, Ghana National ParkVarious herons, hundreds of them in all sizes are assured of food and water. Little cormorant, grey heron, purple heron, different species of egret, open-billed, painted, black necked and white necked stork, spoonbill, white ibis, night heron and different birds are busy in mating and courting each other. The trees are laden with hundreds of nest and one can easily observe a tree full of nearly 50-60 nests belonging to various species of birds taking care of their loving young ones.these nests give an impression of pearl necklace on the tree. The tallest flight birds, Gracious Saras cranes have their nests in open and exposed areas. Hatching duty is equally shared by both the partners and incubates them together by raising shrill-trumpeted calls and raising their necks. They also fan their feathers jointly while giving the calls.

The newborn are only 10cm in size but grow up to 1 metre tall within a year’s time. Birds from all over the country start flocking down to the sanctuary with the arrival of the monsoons. Migratory birds or the Keoladeo Siberian cranes form an integral part of the park along with other migratory waterfowls. These waterfowls visit the park in October and rosy starlings mark the arrival of these migratory birds. The Grey leg geese and bar headed are the most noticeable waterfowls coming to the park.

Shoveled, mallard, common teal, Gadwall, pintail, red crested pochard, ruddy shelduck, and widgeon, common shell duck are some of the commonly spotted ducks here. Tawny eagee, imperial eagle, steppe, spotted eagle, laggar falcon, marsh terrier are some of the common predatory birds found in the park that complete the avian food chain of the eco-system. Lesser spotted eagle, short-toed eagle and shikra are some of the permanent residents of the park.

Out of 29 sq. km area, 11 sq. km is covered with water and the rest is laden with rich variety of birds including white and red vented cheeked bulbuls, kingfisher, quails, babblers, sunbirds, partridges, sparrows, orioles and parakeets that dwell in burrows or bushes. The park is ornithologists delight and a pilgrimage for bird lovers with its year rounds activity of birds. Although birds are the predominant dwellers of the park, nevertheless, the animal populace also graces the beauty of the sanctuary. You can easily spot the antelopes, nilgais and the spotted deer here. You can even see pythons sometimes that bask in the sun.

In order to enjoy the beauty of the park, it is best to travel on foot or on bicycle. However, you can also engage Electra van of the forest department but the vehicles are permitted only up to Shanti Kutir. You can also hire cycle-rickshaws.

Location of keoladeo ghana National Park :Lies at an elevation of 360 370m (1180-1200ft) in the Bharatpur district of RajasttJan.

Climate of keoladeo ghana National Park : : Summer temperatures fluctuate between 26 and 38°C (79 and. 100°F); winter months (mid. November to February) pleasant.

When to go (keoladeo ghana National Park) : Best period for sighting migratory birds is November to February, while monsoon and autumn (mid.September to mid, November) months ideal for viewing breeding birds. Drier months of March through May are best for viewing faunal life.

Getting to keoladeo ghana National Park : Bharatpur lies 176km (110 miles) from Delhi and is 2km (t mile) from park; it is the nearest railhead. Nearest, airport is Agra, 54km (30 miles) due east of Bharatpur. Bus services link Bharatpur with major cities of Rajasthan and outside the state.

Facilities at keoladeo ghana National Park :Bharatpur has plenty of accommodation for different budget travellers: ITDC.run forest lodge; RTDC'run tourist bungalow; Laxmi Vilas Palace, 2km (1 mife) from park entrance; and Chandra Mahal Haveli 22km (14 mifes) away (latter two classified as Heritage Hotels).

Avian life of keoladeo ghana National Park : Impressive list of colourful breeding, migratory and resi. dent birds. Boats and bicycles for hire in wetlands. Rickshaws can be hired near the gate; drivers act as guides and are good in identifying birds (good for photography). Indian Rock Python can be seen at Python Point.


Permits and Reservations for keoladeo ghana National Park : Accommodation can be reserved with: The Wildlife Warden, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur, Rajasthan. The for. est rest house operates a minibus; contact the Deputy Chief Wildlife Warden, Forest Rest House, tel: (05644)22777.

Travel Angel Says: The National Park is roughly rectangular in shape. With a length of 23 kilometers (14miles) and a width of 8 kilometers (5 miles), its total area is 142 square kilometers (55 square miles). Dachigam was proclaimed a sanctuary in 1951, and it was upgraded to national park status in 1981.

The park consists of two sectors: Upper Dachigam, which lies in the higher reaches on the eastern side and makes up tow thirds of the entire area, and Lower Dachigam in the west. The beautiful Daghawna River flows across Lower Dachigam through a shrub-covered rocky ravine. Mulberry trees, willows and oaks are predominant in Dachigam's lower reaches, an area of thick undergrowth, while Blue Pine, juniper and birch and thinning undergrowth exists in the upper region. Several fire lines exist, and these are cleared every March, helping increase visibility of wildlife in the park.

for more wildlife visit - Wildlife Journey India, Popular Wildlife Tours, Indian Wildlife Tours

Two poachers held with leopard skins in Uttar Pradesh

Lucknow, Nov 27 (IANS) Two poachers who operated in several states have been arrested with leopard skins in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district, police said Saturday.

The two men in their mid-30s were nabbed late Friday from Risia area during a joint operation carried out by the Special Operations Group (SOG) and the district police but two of their aides managed to escape.

“Two leopard skins were recovered from the bag seized from the two men,” police inspector K.D. Singh told reporters Saturday in Bahraich, some 130 km from Lucknow.

“We have learnt that their accomplices, who managed to escape during the operation, also had leopard skins. Efforts are on to nab them on the basis of inputs provided by those arrested,” he added.

According to police, the two were involved with a Nepal-based poaching racket and had their clients in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.

“We are yet to ascertain where the leopards were killed. The two are giving contradictory statements about it. But they told us that they were going to hand over the skins to their gang members in Nepal,” said Singh.

Killing a leopard is a serious offence as per the Indian Wildlife Act. The offenders can get three to seven years rigorous imprisonment if found guilty.

news source by ; http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/enviornment/two-poachers-held-with-leopard-skins-in-uttar-pradesh-2_100465974.html

India's wildlife law enforcement gets a boost with the launch of TRAFFIC's latest handbook

New Delhi, India, 16 February 2010—As a step forward towards strengthening wildlife enforcement in India, Shri Jairam Ramesh, Hon. Minister of Environment and Forests launched TRAFFIC India’s latest Handbook on Wildlife Law Enforcement in India on 16 February 2010 at the WWF-India Secretariat in New Delhi. The book has been produced with support from WWF-India and is authored by Samir Sinha, Head-TRAFFIC India.

The handbook is a comprehensive and detailed publication on wildlife trade and crime, conceived from several discussions with senior enforcement officials and experts. The handbook is for use by officials from the Forest Department, Police, paramilitary forces guarding India's borders, the Central Bureau of Investigation, Department of Revenue Intelligence and others working on wildlife enforcement in India. It can be used as an important resource material during trainings conducted on wildlife enforcement and other related issues.

Its special features include sections on prevention of offences, identifying early signs, the scene of wildlife crime, internet as a tool for illegal wildlife trade, securing electronic evidence and conducting interrogations.

In the foreword to the book, Shri Jairam Ramesh stated, “The handbook is a comprehensive document that highlights emerging threats from illegal wildlife trade and offers valuable information on identifying and responding to such threats.”

“I would recommend the field practitioners, enforcement and policing authorities and anyone with a keen interest in protecting our natural heritage to make use of this handbook in the best possible way”, he further commented at the launch.

news source by : http://www.traffic.org/home/2010/2/16/indias-wildlife-law-enforcement-gets-a-boost-with-the-launch.html

State No 2 in tiger mortality

GUWAHATI: The tiger doesn't seem to be burning bright anymore in India. The country, once home to 40,000 tigers, is left with just 1,200-1,500 big cats, according to the last census (2008) by the National Tiger Conservation Authority. If that isn't bad enough, Wildlife Protection Society of India's (WPSI) wildlife crime database has even more depressing news for officials. According to the 2010 WPSI study, 58 tigers died under various circumstances and Assam ranks second in tiger mortality index, just behind Madhya Pradesh. Of the 58 deaths, 30 (51%) were poaching and seizure-related.

Assam, which was in the news days ago after the Kaziranga reserve reported the highest tiger density in the world, lost nine tigers last year. "Skeletons of two tigers were seized, one was a confirmed poaching case, four tigers were found dead, one man-eater was shot dead and another tiger died from reported infighting. Of the nine tigers, five were from Kaziranga. The origin of the two tiger skeletons is not known," said WPSI executive director Belinda Wright.

According to Biswajit Roy Chowdhury of Nature Environment and Wildlife Society, Assam is the gateway for smuggling activities towards southeast Asia. "Smugglers reach China via Arunachal and Myanmar from Assam. Tibet is also accessible on this route. That's why poaching is rampant in Assam," he said.

Md Firoz Ahmed, wildlife biologist with a Guwahati-based conservation organisation Aaranyak, told TOI: "The tiger density in Kaziranga is too high given its 500 sqkm core area. In terms of prey base, it can support a density of 30 tigers per 100 sqkm, but area-wise it may not be able to sustain the population." According to him, relocation will not be a solution. "Orang is already populated with big cats. Retaliation deaths are being reported from Nameri and Manas."

read full story : http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/State-No-2-in-tiger-mortality/articleshow/7344048.cms

240 whale sharks rescued off Gujarat coast since 2004

Mangrol (Gujarat), Jan 25 (IANS) From being hunted in hundreds for their liver oil till a decade ago, about 240 whale sharks have been rescued off Gujarat's coast since a conservation project was initiated in 2004, an official said Tuesday in this coastal fishing town.

Rahul Kaul, senior director with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) said that the programme that was started in 2004 was the first one of it's kind to pave the way for voluntary conservation at this scale.

'The fishing community willingly agreed to sacrifice its economic gain, displaying exemplary sense of responsibility to the marine environment in which it thrives while the government has come forward to provide relief for the loss of the fishing net to the extent of Rs.25,000 and Tata Chemicals Ltd (TCL) has been funding the project,' Kaul said on the sidelines of a function held in Mangrol in Junagadh district to celebrate 'Whale Shark Day'.

The WTI in concert with the Coast Guard and Gujarat's forest department with funding from Tata Chemicals have been spearheading a conservation movement for the whale shark, endearingly known as 'Vhali' in the state.

In 2009, TCL and WTI had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a conservation project to create awareness and undertake research to save the endangered species that visits the coastal shores of the state between January and March.

The MOU also undertook a study to explore whale shark tourism opportunities in the region, making the project a unique one in the country.

Rishi Pathania, manager (community development) with TCL, said the whale shark conservation project along with the Mithapur coral reef securement project stood out as two of the largest corporate-supported conservation initiatives in India aimed at creating a conducive environment for the well-being and breeding of marine life species in this coastal region.

A decade ago, whale sharks were brutally hunted in hundreds along the Gujarat coast for its liveroil to waterproof boats and also for its meat, which was exported. On May 28, 2001 whale shark hunting was banned in India.

Every year, Whale Shark Day is celebrated to spread awareness amongst people, specially the fishing community. This year, the fishing town of Mangrol went a step further to adopt 'Vhali' as its symbol.

news source by : http://www.sify.com/news/240-whale-sharks-rescued-off-Gujarat-coast-since-2004-news-National-lbzsOmcbcdd.html

Jim Corbett National Park ( For Tiger trail on Elephant Back Safari)

Corbett was the first National Park to be incorporated in the Project Tiger scheme, in 1973. Today Corbett National Park and Tiger Reserve sprawls over an area of 1318 square kilometers (51Deers, Corbett National Park0 square miles) of undulating Sal (Shorea robusta) forest between the districts of Nainital and Pauri Garhwal in Uttar Pradesh, in northern India. In October 1991, a buffer zone was added to the park's area, consisting of just over 300 square kilometers (117 square miles). The additional expanses of natural land used to form part of the Klagarh Forest Division, the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary (part of the Ramanagarh Forest Division). The newly created park with its adjoining verdant acres today make up the sole surviving jungles of the Garhwal Himalaya

Corbett has aptly been described as the land of the Roar, Trumpet and Song. It represents a scene of remarkable beauty.

Corbett had the proud distinction of being the chosen venue for the inauguration of Project Tiger in India. The rich bio-diversity of the Reserve is partly attributed to the variety of habitat found here. Due to the location of the Reserve in the foothills of the Central Himalayas, both Himalayan and peninsular flora and fauna is found in the Reserve.

The grasslands, locally known as Chaurs, are limited. The largest grasslamnd is the Dhikala Chaur. Some of the best grasslands including the famous Buxor Chaur and the Beri Chaur were submerged in the Ramganga reservoir in 1974. The areas made available as a result of the relocation of the villages, Dhara, Jhirna and Kothirau in 1994 are being developed into grasslands through habitat management.

Location of Corbett National Park : Situated at an altitude of 120 and 400m (400 and 1250ft). Nearest railhead is at Ramnagar, approximately 19km (12 miles) southeast of the park. Nearest airport is at Pantnagar 50km (30 miles) away.

Climate of Corbett National Park : Summer temperatures soar to 43°C (108°F) at max and 19°C ( 42.5°F) at Min., while on winter day temperature rises to 25°C (46°F) and dips to 3°C (33°F) .

When to go (Corbett National Park): Best period is between November and May; visibility of wildlife is better in the drier summer. Park remains closed in wet monsoon season from July to October.

Getting to Corbett National Park : The Delhi-Moradabad National Highway connects the Kashipur-Ramnagar-Dhikala network of towns. Project Tiger headquarters are at Ramnagar, mandatory entry point for the park. Bus services operate regularly along the Nainital-Kathgodam-Ramganagar-Dhikala route.

Facilities at Corbett National Park: Basic facilities at Dhikala (forest rest houses and log huts), which has a canteen and shop selling provisions. Forest rest houses at Sarapdull, Gairal and Bijrani, all within the park. More up market hotels in nearby Ramnagar; Corbett Infinity Resort (Tiger Tops), Corbett River Side Resort are good to relax.

Reservation for Corbett National Park : Contact : The Field Director, Poject Tiger, Corbett Tiger Reserve, Post Office; Ramnagar, Nainital District, Uttranchal

Conservation History
The Reserve area was named as 'Hailey National Park' in 1936. This was renamed in 1954-55 as 'Ramganga National Park' and again in 1955-56 as 'Corbett National Park'. Its the oldest National Park of India. It was one of the nine Tiger Reserves created at the launch of the Project Tiger in 1973. The original area of the Park was 323.75 sq. km. to which 197.07 sq. km. was added later. An area of 797.72 sq. km. was added as buffer of the Corbett Tiger Reserve in 1991. This area includes the whole of Kalagarh Forest Division (including 301.18 sq. km. area of Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary), 96.70 sq. km. of Ramnagar Forest Division and 89 sq. km. The administrative control over the entire area is that of the Field Director of the Reserve.

Forest Types
Northern Moist Deciduous, Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous, Himalayan Subtropical Pine Forests

Main Species(Flora)
Sal, Khair, Sissoo, Ber, Kuthber, Bel, Chbilla, Dhak, Semal, Khingan, Kharpat, Rohini, Bakli, Pula and Bamboo

Main Species(Fauna)
Mammals: Tiger, Leopard, Elephant, Cheetal , Sambar , Hog Deer, Barking Deer , Wildboar Langoor And Rhesus Monkey.

Birds : Peacock, Jungle Fowl, Partridges, Kaleej, Crow, Vulture, Parakeets, Laughing Thrush, Orioles, King Fishers, Drongo, Doves, Woodpeckers, Ducks, Teals, Storks, Cormorants and Seagulls .

Reptile : Indian Marsh Crocodiles Or Mugger , Gharials , King Cobra, Common Krait , Cobra, Russel , Python and Monitor Lizard .

Pisces : Mahaseer , Kalimuchi , Kalabasu , Chilwa and Goonch.

Corbett Hideway Resort, Corbett National ParkSpecial Projects

# Development of Interpretive Facilities - Under the aegis of the Indo-US Sub Commission on Science and Technology, the Wildlife Institute of India in collaboration with US Fish & Wildlife Service has initiated a project entitled Planning and Development of Interpretive Facilities in Corbett National Park. Corbett Centre for Conservation - An ambitious Corbett Centre for Conservation is being developed at Kalagarh on the boundary of Corbett National Park.

# The establishment of this facility is one of the major components of the World Bank aided UP Forestry Project. This centre will be developed in such a fashion so as to meet the training, research and extension requirements of the Wildlife Preservation Organization and the Forest Department of U.P. Construction of residential and mess facilities for 40 persons is in progress

New Initiatives: Several important initiatives have been taken by the Corbett Tiger Reserve management during the last five years.

Eco-development
The UP Forest Department has formulated guidelines on eco-development. Eco-development forms one of the important components under the World Bank aided UP Forestry Project. Eco-development Committees are being formed in villages situated in the peripheral areas of Corbett Tiger Reserve. So far, twelve eco-development committees have been formed.

A Spearhead Team for CTR was trained by WII during October, 1997. With the help of this team, staff, NGOs and Eco-development Committee members are being trained in participatory methods for microplanning and monitoring at Corbett Centre for Conservation by conducting workshops and study tours. During 1998, two cluster workshops were conducted forfield staff from protected areas (PAs) of Uttarakhand. Seven Spearhead Team from different PAs of UP were trained in Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) methodology and technique of microplanning. EDC members from 22 villages were trained in three workshops so as to enable them to discharge their responsibilities effectively. Several workshops have also been conducted at village and range level as part of the microplanning process. Booklets in Hindi on different aspects of eco-development are being brought out as resource material for these workshops. Jaiv Vividhata Sanrakshan main Sahabhagita Kyon Aur Kaise and Microplanning Vidhi Aur Prarup have already been published and operational guidelines for eco-development are being prepared. The first microplan was prepared for Dhikolia village in December 1997 under the supervision of the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun. Subsequently, three more microplans were prepared for Dhela, Dhikuli and Ringora villages. The programme is being implemented in these four villages. Microplanning is in advanced stages of completion in another eight villages.

Nature Guide Programme
In 1993, a training course of two and a half-month duration was organised for 25 educated unemployed youth. The participants were trained in natural history, visitor management and park interpretation and subsequently registered as nature guides in Corbett. Shortage of guides led to the organization of a second course in 1995 in which another batch of 25 youth received training.

The establishment of the guide service has convincingly demonstrated that Corbett has the potential to provide economic benefits to the local people through such linkages. An additional benefit has been that Reserve staff who used to be preoccupied with the duty of guiding the visitors is now free to carry management activities.

Eco-tourism
Workshops of various stakeholders connected with ecotourism in Corbett, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary and Garhwal region have been organised to develop understanding and agreement between different stakeholders so as to ensure biodiversity conservation and maximize benefits to the local communities.

Voluntary Support
The Government of Uttar Pradesh has authorized the Directors of National Parks to accept voluntary gifts from visitors and NGOs. The Director maintains an account of the gifts received and send information to the Government.

Corbett Resort, Corbett National ParkStone Masonry Wall
The Central Government has sanctioned Rs.141.00 lakhs for the construction of a 12-km. long stone masonry wall on the southern boundary of Corbett where it comes in direct contact with agricultural fields.

NGO Support
NGOs have come forward to assist Corbett in strengthening protection measures.

Education and Awareness
Visitor Centre - A visitor centre has been constructed to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Corbett National Park at Dhangarhi, the main entrance to Corbett National Park. This centre is being used to organize activities for both children and the villagers and provide information to the visitors. Interpretive facilities will be developed in the visitor centre as part of the Indo-US collaborative project on interpretation.

Corbett Newsletter - Corbett National Park became the first NP of India to have its own in-house magazine when the Corbett newsletter was first launched in April 1994. It is a quarterly publication with alternate issue in Hindi and English. The newsletter contains reports on incidents and activities in Corbett, policy changes and management initiatives and in depth articles on wildlife conservation specially those related to tiger. The Hindi edition is distributed free of cost to the villagers, school children and staff.

for more wildlife visit - Wildlife Journey India, Popular Wildlife Tours, Indian Wildlife Tours

Hyena population on a decline in MP

MHOW (MP): The hyena population in forests adjoining Mhow district in Madhya Pradesh is declining fast as they are increasingly falling prey to road mishaps.

Mhow, Badgonda, Choral and Manpur have a 20-km thick forest cover and hyenas with other animals like panther, wild boars, jackals and deer were once found in plenty in these places.

Mhow sub-divisional officer (forest), O P Sharma said that in the past, the hyenas were in plenty in this region but now its number has declined to 30 or 35.

Earlier, the number of hyenas in the region was 50, Sharma said adding that most of the hyenas died in road accidents.

Some of them also died while they were undergoing treatment because of injuries, he added.

Though the injuries were similar to that of bullet wounds, it could not be said that poachers were responsible for it, Sharma said.

In fact, hyena is known as scavenging animal because it cleans the environment by eating the carcasses.

Most of the deaths have occurred on the 22 km stretch between Pithampur and Gujri on the Rau-Khalghat four-lane road and also on the Agra-Bombay highway, he said.

The poachers do not kill hyenas but many of them fell prey to the bullets of hunters who mistook them for other animals, Sharma said.

Besides, when the hyenas come out of the forest for prey or for water, they are run over by vehicles, he said.

As the ecological balance of the entire region is disturbed, there is not enough food for the survival of hyenas.

Read more: The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Hyena-population-on-a-decline-in-MP/articleshow/7347633.cms

Carcasses of wild animals seized in J&K

JAMMU: Three carcasses of wild animals were seized from poachers by forest officials in Kathua district.

State wildlife officials said they had intercepted two persons on a scooter at Chhalla area during a routine patrol yesterday. The duo fled but left behind their scooter, a plastic bag and two spears.

Carcasses of a jackal, civet and jungle cats were discovered inside the bag, which also contained iron traps used for trapping animals, they said.

The carcasses were sent for postmortem examination. Police filed a case was under relevant sections of the J&K wildlife protection Act. A hunt was launched to nab the two.

Read more: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Carcasses-of-wild-animals-seized-in-JK/articleshow/7347605.cms

Sloth bear cubs seized; indicates shift in trade hub

Sloth bear cubs seized; indicates shift in trade hub

New Delhi, January 21, 2011: Two sloth bear cubs were seized and two traders arrested in Keonjhar district in the east Indian state of Orissa by Police authorities, yesterday.

The seizure reveals new source areas in sloth bear trade, even as joint action by the Orissa Forest Department and the World Society for Protection of Animals – Wildlife Trust of India (WSPA-WTI) has prevented removal of bears from the wild in Sambalpur district - the epicentre of this illegal trade in the country until 2008.

“Traders visited Sambalpur for cubs that are subsequently sold to Kalandars. We have been able to successfully cut this district off from the trade over the past two years through various community initiatives. Our team has also been assisting the Forest authorities to identify and monitor bear dens to prevent poaching of the cubs, tackling the issue from the root,” said Ashok Kumar, Vice-chairman, WTI.

In Sambalpur, WSPA-WTI helped the Forest authorities to create Village Protection Committees to protect bear dens around villages in sloth bear habitats. Comprising local villagers, the committees have identified and are monitoring the dens and areas around them to prevent poaching of cubs.
Village protection committee members with WTI staff in Orissa
Village Protection Committee members along with WTI field officer Rudra Prasanna Mahapatra patrol sloth bear habitat in Sambalpur

“However, the traders are now looking for alternatives. Areas like Keonjhar that are located near state boundaries and have sloth bears in the wild should be monitored to curb this trade,” added Kumar.

The two cubs were confiscated in Juhupura town in an operation carried out by a team under the supervision of the Superintendent of Police, Keonjhar, Ashish Kumar, based on undercover information provided by WSPA-WTI. The cubs, about two-months-old, were reportedly picked about three weeks ago from forests near Juhupura.

WSPA-WTI runs the Sloth Bear Conservation and Welfare Project to assist Forest Departments in various states including Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Chhattisgarh. The project deploys a holistic approach by rehabilitating Kalandars, spreading awareness through campaigns, trade control, strengthening protection in sloth bear habitats, as well as intelligence gathering.

“Our team has found that traders from villages in eastern UP and Bihar are scouting these potential trade areas and placing their ‘demand’ for bear cubs to the tribal communities. Stopping these trade instigators is the major challenge to sloth bear conservation today,” added Kumar.


Photos: WTI

News source by - http://www.wildlifetrustofindia.org/current-news/110121_Sloth_bear_cubs_seized_indicates_shift_in_trade%20hub.html

Aman I Khas, ( Ranthambore )

About Aman I Khas, Ranthambore

New Delhi, with its broad boulevards and tree-lined avenues, is the gateway to Amanresorts stays in Rajasthan, India. The international airport is located approximately 35km from the city centre. The Aman-i-Khás Experience includes one night in the capital, New Delhi followed by three nights at the camp itself. Amanresorts provides operational assistance to The Manor hotel, set in one-and-a-half acres of landscaped garden in the green Friends Colony suburb. This intimate 12-suite hotel is a comfortable overnight retreat. At The Manor, a complimentary car and driver are available for Aman-i-Khás guests to shop and enjoy the sights of Delhi.

Amani I Khas Hotel, Ranthambore TourExperience :

The experience at Aman-i-Khás is focused on viewing wildlife, in particular, the tiger. Ranthambhore National Park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955. It was once the hunting grounds of the Maharajah of Jaipur. Following the launch of Project Tiger and concerted conservation efforts to save the big cats, the tiger population is now more visible and stable.

Wildlife :
The core of the park, which measures around 400 square kilometres, presents the best opportunity for spotting tigers, leopards, jungle cats, hyenas and sloth bears. Interestingly, tiger sightings at Ranthambhore are among the best anywhere.

Chital deer, antelopes and gazelles can also be seen roaming the savannah whilst the lakes and waterholes are home to the Indian marsh crocodile. Bird life, both resident and migratory, is prolific and over 350 species have been sighted within the park.

The best time to view game is in the early morning and late afternoon. The camp operates four-wheel-drive open-top jeeps customised for maximum comfort. The morning starts with tea or coffee at 5am with the vehicles leaving camp shortly after. Excursions last around four-and-a-half-hours and take place twice a day. Trips are led by Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve appointed guides who take guests on a range of routes through the park. The morning excursion returns at about 9.30am when breakfast is served. The afternoon excursions depart from the camp at around 3.30pm and generally return at 6.30pm. Excursion times are set by the park authorities as only a limited number of vehicles are permitted inside the park core at any one time.

Aman-i-Khás is an exclusive wilderness camp set in the rugged hills of Rajasthan on the outskirts of Ranthambhore National Park. The park offers opportunities for sighting leopards, tigers and deer. The luxury tents are set in a quiet rural area that borders one of the finest tiger reserves in the world. The camp operates from October until the end of June – the best period for wildlife spotting.

There are six accommodation tents. Each echoes a rich Mughal style with “rooms” separated by cotton drapes. The tents, set on a concrete plinth, measure 108sq m, and are identical in design. They are constructed of canvas and supported by a steel frame with the interior walls and ceilings draped in fine cotton.

There are three additional tents – making nine in all. The Dining Tent at Aman-i-Khás is furnished with tables and chairs. Meals are often served in different locations throughout

Distance From :

Jaipur    -      180 kms
Kota     -      125 kms
Agra     -       290 kms
Delhi     -      340 kms
Jodhpur    -   476 kms
Ajmer    -      272 kms
Udaipur  -     400 kms

Bandhavgarh National Park ( For Tiger Photographic Safari )

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is located between the Vindhyan hill range and the esstern flank of Satpu8ra hill range, anTiger, Bandhavgarh National Parkd falls in the Shahdol and Jabalpur districts of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.

The Reserve gets its name from the highest hill, Bandhavharh (807m),located in the center of the Reserve.. A chain of smaller hills, thirty -two in all, surround this hill forming a number of valleys and spurs in between. Bertica cliffs are more prominent around number of grassy meadows, such as Chalradhara, Rajbsahera, is of sandstone, water percolates through it, forming a number of perennial streams and springs. The western parts of the Reserve and Panpatha Sanctuary area are more of less plain. The hills are mainly flat- topped. The meadows in certain areas ate marshy.

Sal trees cover low, undulating and plain tracts and degenerate in growth and quality as they ascend he hill slopes, giving place to mixed forest on the upper slopes, mainly due to edaphic factors. Gregarious flowering of bamboo in year 1984-85 has resulted in profuse regeneration all over, which is giving good cover to all animals.

A few rare species such as the insectivorous plant Drocera peltata and medicinal plants such as Buch (Acorus calamus are found in some isolated patches of Tata range of the Reserve. The rivers Johilla and Son flowing on the eastern side, the river Umrar passing through the western fringes and the landmarks of the Reserve. Bandhavgarh has been an excellent habitat of the tiger and is Known for its highest density of tiger population in the world.

Location of Bandhavgarh National Park :Set amidst Vindhya ranges, altitude varies from 44-81m (144-2660ft0 above sea leavel. Khajuraho,210km (130 miles) from park,is nearest airport it is a five-hour drive from here to Tala Nearest railheads are Jabalpur(164km;100miles)., Katni(102 km; 63 miles) and Satna(112km;70 miles) on the Central Railway and Umaria (32km; 20 miles) on the Southeastern Railway.

Climate of Bandhavgarh National Park: Winter nights are freezing (2°C; 36°F), summer unpleasantly hot (maximum 42°C; 108°F

When to go (Bandhavgarh National Park ): February to May is favourable; park remains closed from beginning July to end October).

Getting to Bandhavgarh National Park : Private bus and car hire available from Umaria (32km; 20 miles), Amarpatan (80km; 50 miles), Shahdol (97km; 60 miles) and Rewa (105km; 65 miles), as well as from Khajoraho and Satna..

Facilities at Bandhavgarh National Park :Accommodation provided by the MPSTDC (Wriite Tiger Forest Lodge) and many private lodges at Tala (Bandhavgarh Jungle Camp - former Maharaja of Rewa's palace - and Tiger Trails). Visitors may enter park in their own vehicles (petrol only as diesel banned here); alternatively hire a taxi at Tala (park entry point). Park open from dawn to dusk. At entry gate, trained guides with interpretive skills can lead visitors through the park.

Permits and Reservations for Bandhavgarh National Park : Prior booking essential; write to: The Manager, White Tiger Forest Lodge, Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation: Umaria. Shahdol District, Madhya Pradesh; dr Tourist Officer, Head Office, MPSTDC, 4th Floor Gangotri,T T Nagar,Bhopal.

Conservation History
Bandhavgarh National ParkThe Bandhavgarh Fort, in the centre of the Reserve, atop the Bandhavgarh hill, was the seat of rulers of Rewa State, until they shifted to Rewa town in 1617 A.D. After independence and abolition of the princely States, the process of degradation of forests started due to relaxed control. Maharaja Martand Singh of Rewa, was deeply moved by the destruction of forests. On his proposal an area of 105 sq. km. was declared as National Park in 1965. The area of the park was increased to 448.84 sq. km. in 1982.

Bandhavgarh has been an excellent habitat of tiger and is known for the highest density of tigers in the world. Considering the importance and potentiality of the National park, it was included in the Project Tiger Network in 1993. The adjoining Panpatha Sanctuary too was declared as a part of the Reserve.

The area of 105 sq. km. of old National Park was finally notified in 1968. The remaining part of the National Park i.e. 343.842 sq. km. is yet to be finally declared though State Government had made the initial notification in 1982. Panpatha Sanctuary with an area of 245.847 sq. km. was declared in 1983.

Archeology
Mythologically the fort was built by Lord Rama for his brother Laxman, during Ramayan period. There are a number of man made caves (35) in Bandhavgarh with inscriptions and carvings, which date back between about 129-168 A.D. Statues of various incarnations of Lord Vishnu, which were carved out of single rocks are found in the fort. "Sheshshaiya" the statue of lord Vishnu in reclining pose is the biggest of all and attracts every tourist. These statues date back to 10-11th Century A.D.

Forest Types
Main Species(Flora)

Sal, Saja, Dhauda, Tendu, Arjun, Aonla, Pals, Salai, Bhirra, Khamer, Dhaman, Mango, Jamun, Bamboo, etc.

Main Species (Fauna)

Mammals:Spotted deer or Chital, Sambar, Barking deer or Muntjac, Chausinga or Four-horned antilope, Nilgai or Blue bull, Indian Gazel or chinkara and Tiger, Leopard, wild dog or Dhole, Wolf, Scavangers consists of Hyena, jackal, Wild boar, Sloth bear, Common Langur, Rhesus monkey etc.

Bird:242 species of birds have been identified in the Reserve. Commonly seen are Peafowl, Red Jungle fowl, Grey Hornbill, Common Teals, Red Wattled Lapwing, Crested Serpent Eagle, White Breasted Kingfisher, Lesser Adjutant Stork, etc.

Tiger, Bandhavgarh National parkReptile: Cobras, Kraits, Vipers and Python

Fauna listed in the Schedules of WPA, 1972

Tiger (Panthera tigris), Leopard (Panthera pardus), Jungle Cat (Felis chaus), Wolf (Canis lupus), Jackal (Canis aureus), Indian Fox (Vulpes bengalensis), Wild Dog (Cuon alpinus), Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus), Ratel (Mellivora capensis), Hyaena (Hyaena hyaena), Chinkara (Gazella gazella) and Chowsingha (Tetraceros quadicornis). Amongst birds are Malabar Pied Hornbill and amongst reptiles Indian Varanus (Varanus bengalensis) and Python (Python morulus).

Special Projects
M.P. Forestry Project has been launched in this area with the help of World Bank. This is helping in infrastructure, in habitat improvement and for training of staff for wildlife protection. This project is also having main thrust in Eco-development works around the reserve, in order to reduce the biotic pressure from surrounding villages

New Initiatives
In order to raise more funds for the conservation of Tiger and its habitat, M.P. Tiger Foundation Society has been constituted, which collects funds from any national/ international NGO or individual

Eco-development
Micro-plans have been prepared for eco-development activities in some villages, namely Salkhania, Bagdara, Kathali, Lakhumar, Badawah, Ranchha, Majhkheta and Gohadi. They are being implemented with the funds available under M.P. Forestry Project.

Village Forest Protection Committees
In all, 40 FPCs have been constituted and cooperation is being given in protection and other works. Two diesel jeeps for patrolling have been provided by WWF and one Gypsy by Global Tiger Patrol. They are used as and when required inside the reserve and the periphery.

Education and Awareness
Wildlife week, quiz competitions, excursion of school children inside the park and Radio and T.V. programmes are the main system of education and awareness which are being followed. Regular wildlife film shows are being conducted alongwith meetings in Eco-centres in villages.

Cameras for tiger study capture poachers at Orang

THE TELEGRAPH
January 14, 2011

Caught on camera: A poacher sneaks into Orang

Guwahati, Jan. 13: Camera traps, which up to now have clicked pictures of wildlife in Assam, have now for the first time taken pictures showing poachers at Orang National Park.

Revealing this at a news conference today, Assam principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), Suresh Chand, said pictures taken by camera traps hung on trees have been able to take pictures of a group of poachers who had killed a rhino on January 9. “Cameras which were placed in the trees got the pictures of poachers who were moving in the area. The poachers had come with an intent to kill a rhino,” Chand said.

The poachers were carrying .303 rifles.

Camera trapping is being done by Aaranyak, a wildlife NGO, at Orang National Park for tiger estimation. Around 70 cameras have been put up at strategic locations in the park.

Chand said the poachers, who are believed to be the same, came on January 5. They, however, succeeded in killing a rhino on January 9.

Chand said on January 9, the poachers had changed their route and were successful in killing the rhino.

Divisional forest officer of Orang National Park S.K. Daila said the poachers had adopted a new strategy of shooting the rhino at night. “We have seen poachers striking at dusk or in the wee hours. However, these poachers shot the rhino around 1.30am. They fired from very close range,” he said.

The staff on duty on January 9, N. Chamua, will be put under suspension. “We suspect that he was conniving with the poachers,” Chand said.

The official said the poachers were from outside the area and the pictures have been sent to nearby police stations.

“The forest department has announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for identifying the poachers,” he said.

Chand said the killing of a rhino in Orang took place after a year.

In the entire state in 2010, there were seven instances of rhino poaching while in 2009 there were 14 cases.

In 2009, the number of rhinos in Orang was 64 rhinos while in 2006, 68 rhinos were recorded.

Firoz Ahmed of Aaranyak, who has been looking after the tiger trapping exercise through cameras in Orang, said the poachers came in coincidentally when the cameras were on. “The cameras are placed strategically so that pictures can be taken and are not meant to take pictures of poachers specifically,” Ahmed said.

In the 2009 tiger camera trapping report of Aaranyak in collaboration with forest department, seven tigers, including two males and five females,were recorded in Orang National Park.

Two poachers were killed in an encounter with forestguards in July last year and several arms and ammunition were recovered from them. Another poacher was killed in March last year.

Chand said an elephant census would be held simultaneously with neighbouring states like Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and West Bengal. The dates have been fixed for February 21-26.

source by : http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110114/jsp/northeast/story_13436140.jsp

Pvt airlines aiding illegal wildlife trade

HT Correspondents, Hindustan Times
New Delhi, January 21, 2011

Two major private airlines have been found to be indulging in smuggling of endangered species in the northeastern part of India, wildlife investigators told Environment minister Jairam Ramesh on Thursday. A huge consignment of wildlife body parts, including that of tiger, was caught at Guwahati
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* Ramesh targeting on big ticket projects, reveals ministry data

airport recently while on its way for a foreign destination through a passenger airlines.

“Both cargo and passenger airlines is being used,” said a senior official of National Wildlife Crime Bureau. But refused to divulge the names of the airlines.

Ramesh has now decided to ask Civil Aviation minister Vayalar Ravi to cancel the licences of the airlines found to be allowing smuggling of endangered species, especially from north-eastern India.

Amid concern over the menace of smuggling, Ramesh had called a meeting of various security agencies including the Intelligence Bureau, CBI, Delhi Police, CISF, Bureau of Civil Aviation and Security, ITBP, BSF, SSB, CBEC and the Enforcement Directorate.

"Take it up systematically," Ramesh told the officials in the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), which comes under his Ministry.

A top WCCB official, who was critical of the Bureau of Civil Aviation and Security, complained that the department officials face difficulties to get passes at airports to check smuggling.

The official suggested that a system should be in place at the airport as "in the developed countries" in regard to presence of wildlife officials. "At the checking points, we are finding it difficult to ensure issuances of passes," the official said.

Ramesh suggested to the officials to find out the areas where focus is needed and recommended a "system" to share actionable information among various agencies about smuggling taking place in one sanctuary.

Article source by - http://www.hindustantimes.com/Pvt-airlines-aiding-illegal-wildlife-trade/Article1-652747.aspx

Major setback to translocation of Kanha big cats to Panna

The Pioneer, 13-01-2011
VIVEK TRIVEDI
BHOPAL

In a major setback to the State I Forest Department plans of translocating two Kanha tigresses to the Panna Tiger Reserve, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has said that the two striped felines should be released in the core area of the Phen sanctuary, before considering their relocation to Panna.

In a letter to Chief Wild Life Warden (CWLW) Madhya Pradesh, HS Pabla, the NTCA Deputy Inspector General SP Yadav has said that it would be appropriate to initially release the two-orphaned tigresses in the micro core area at Phen with radio telemetry monitoring.
Significantly the sanctuary is situated in the vicinity of the Kanha Tiger Reserve.

Yadav directed that the tigresses could be moved to Phen after due permission from the competent authority.
"After their wilding, these felines may be considered for translocation to the Panna Tiger Reserve, ” he advised.

The NTCA directives are likely to enthuse wildlife activists who have long been questioning the translocation endeavours of the Forest Department, and also the methodology of the process.

The Forest Department was forced to postpone the translo
cation of the big cats from Kanha to Panna on December 5 last, after the siblings had attacked each other and were left with several cuts and bruises.
The department had not specified as to when the translocation would be completed.

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Six poachers held with tiger skin

Chandrapur Bureau
The Hitavada, Nagpur, 08-January-2011

Chandrapur, Jan 7

THE sleuths of Local Crime Branch (LCB) and Gadchandur cops jointly arrested 6 poachers while smuggling the tiger skin in Gadchandur under the guidance of Superintendent of Police Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma on Thursday night.

LCB got a tip off from Wildlife Protection Society of India (WPSI), Chandrapur about the smuggling of the tiger skin.

Addressing the scribes, SP Dr Sharma informed that, cops got a tip off about tiger skin being smuggled from Andhra Pradesh to Maharashtra on Thursday night.

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