Influence of Connectivity, Wild Prey and Disturbance on Occupancy of Tigers in the Human-Dominated Western Terai Arc Landscape
Fragmentation and the loss of connectivity between suitable habitats have led to range wide population declines among many mammalian species. In this study, we develop a spatially explicit tiger occupancy model with survey data from 2009–10 based on a priori knowledge of tiger biology and specific issues plaguing the western TAL, which occurs in two disjunct units (Tiger Habitat Blocks; THBs). Although the overall occupancy of tigers was 58%, our results clearly indicate that loss in functionality of a regional corridor has resulted in tigers now occupying 17.58% of the available habitat in THB I (western extreme) in comparison to 88.5% in THB II.
Fragmentation and the loss of connectivity between suitable habitats have led to range wide population declines among many mammalian species. In this study, we develop a spatially explicit tiger occupancy model with survey data from 2009–10 based on a priori knowledge of tiger biology and specific issues plaguing the western TAL, which occurs in two disjunct units (Tiger Habitat Blocks; THBs). Although the overall occupancy of tigers was 58%, our results clearly indicate that loss in functionality of a regional corridor has resulted in tigers now occupying 17.58% of the available habitat in THB I (western extreme) in comparison to 88.5% in THB II.
The current patterns of occupancy were best explained by models incorporating the interactive effect of habitat blocks on wild prey availability and anthropogenic disturbances. Our analysis has helped identify areas of high tiger occupancy both within and outside existing protected areas, which highlights the need for a unified control of the landscape under a single conservation unit with the primary focus of managing tigers and associated wildlife. Finally, in the light of global conservation targets and recent legislations in India, our study assumes significance as we identify opportunities to secure (e.g. THB II) and increase (e.g. THB I) tiger populations in the landscape.
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