Indian gaur or Indian bison (Bos gaurus gaurus) is a wild bovid. It is
categorized as vulnerable in the IUCN Red list of threatened species, 2009 and listed in
schedule-1 of Indian wildlife (protection) act, 1972. The present population density and
conservation status of gaur in Tripura was studied. Trishna wildlife sanctuary, popularly
known as “Eden of Bison”, is situated in the South Tripura district. It is home to five
primate species, namely, Spectacled langur (Trachypithecus phayrie), Rhesus macaque
(Macaca mulatta), Pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemtsetrina) Capped langur
(Trachypithecus pileatus) and Hoolock gibbon (Hylobates hoolock). Physical characters
and feeding behaviour of gaur are recorded. Direct counting of stratified block count
method was followed to assess the population strength of gaur. The whole sanctuary
was stratified into three habitats, in situ., dense forest, degraded forest and bushy forest.
Counts of sample blocks of the three strata were recorded and total population of the
sanctuary was found to be 255±139. Stratum-wise population density was calculated to
be 0.99, 1.67 and 1.88 for dense forest, degraded forest and bushy forest respectively.
Many conservation measures are taken up by the Forest department to protect this
species and its habitat. However, some anthropogenic threats and adverse effects of
global warming on gaur are recorded. Further measures are recommended to conserve
Indian gaur and its habitat for the benefit of future generations.
Keywords: Bison, conservation strategies, hunting, Indian gaur, indigenous
knowledge, poaching, population density, vulnerable, wild life sanctuary.
