Use of Unique Habitats by Wildlife Species in Tadoba - Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The use of unique habitats, which constituted of caves and culverts by wildlife species was analyzed over the course of an annual cycle. Use of 18 caves by dependent wildlife species was studied. The movement and use by wildlife species through 42 culverts under forest roads in Tadoba - Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) was investigated. Use of caves was detected for Tiger (panthera tigris), Sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), reptiles and bats. In case of culverts passage and use was detected for tiger, sloth bear, lesser carnivores, reptiles, birds and reptiles. The intensity of use of these features varied considerably among groups.